Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Fujimura

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA:

(Abridged)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Starting tomorrow, a deliberative poll (DP) will be conducted to decide on (the Government's policy on) the dependency on nuclear power. Exactly how will the polling results be reflected in the Government's decision? If there is anything which has been decided, I would appreciate your comments.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: As has already been reported by the media, a deliberative poll (DP) will be conducted for the first time. The purpose is to gauge the opinions of the people who represent society, including the silent majority. Through the deliberative poll, the people will deliberate amongst each other, and we expect to be able to obtain well thought out opinions. This is one of the means for the Government to hear the voices of the people. In addition to this, the Government is receiving opinions and requests from various groups and others through hearings as well as public comments. While turning our ear to these varieties of opinions, the Government will ultimately make a responsible decision on the strategy for energy and the environment.

(Abridged)