Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The Miyagi Prefecture Governor's comments on domestic political situations in relation to reconstruction of the disaster-affected areas

(Abridged)

REPORTER: In a press conference yesterday, Miyagi Prefecture Governor Yoshihiro Murai commented that he hopes that the internal conflict of the ruling party will not result in hindering reconstruction. He also pointed out concern that this conflict would make it difficult for the Prime Minister to exercise leadership. Please offer your opinion about these concerns - expressed by a municipal government of a disaster-affected area.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: As you are likely aware, that comment was made yesterday, and today Governor Murai is actually meeting with the Prime Minister. Nevertheless, the question was about yesterday's comment. The three top priority issues of Japan are reconstruction from the earthquake disaster, the fight against the nuclear power station accident, and the revitalization of the Japanese economy. These have been the three main themes since the launch of the Noda administration. Another focus has been the passing of the bill on the comprehensive reform of social security and taxation systems. There has been no change in these policies. Against this backdrop, if there are concerns then it is necessary to focus on reaching a consensus with regard to party response and within the Diet. There is no change in the Cabinet's position that it will put forth every effort to achieving that mission - the major themes that I mentioned just now.

(Abridged)