Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The contaminated water issue

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Regarding the contaminated water issue, the Chairman of the Policy Research Council of the Liberal Democratic Party, Ms. Takaichi, has said that the party will consider establishing a special measures act. If a decision is made to create a special measures act, I believe that would mean that the Government will be entering into a new phase. Is there agreement within the Government on exploring this possibility?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Regarding the contaminated water issue, as I have repeatedly stated during these press conferences, the current law stipulates that this issue be dealt with by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO). However, many problems occurred, and they were only dealt with through haphazard measures after the fact. Therefore, recognizing that this is indeed an urgent issue, and furthermore, an issue that requires advanced technologies, it was decided that the Government will play a proactive role in thoroughly and fundamentally reviewing this matter, even by using reserve funds. The Basic Policy for the Contaminated Water Issue was approved on September 3. In accordance with the Basic Policy, the Government will respond to this issue in close coordination with the ruling parties.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question in connection with the contaminated water issue. The issue of Japan's dissemination of information regarding this matter has been pointed out by various parties, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Yesterday, you stated that Japan's information dissemination will be strengthened, including towards the foreign media. It was believed that the first opportunity Japan had to rectify its bad reputation was the Prime Minister's visit tomorrow to Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. At first, the visit was closed to the foreign media. However, as a result of strong requests, it was decided that one reporter for the foreign media would be allowed to join. What is your personal view regarding this current situation of information dissemination?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I understand that at first the foreign media were not included. After hearing that, I instructed that it should be opened up to the foreign media. I believed it was critically important that the media naturally accompanies the Prime Minister, circumstances permitting, and disseminate information. This matter was brought to my attention, and I instructed that the matter be dealt with immediately.

REPORTER: What kind of appeal will be made by Prime Minister Abe, who is making the visit under these circumstances, and to whom will it be made? What is the purpose of the visit?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: The Prime Minister would like to once again carefully confirm the situation at the site in person. As the Government has said clearly that it will take responsibility to settle the contaminated water issue, the Prime Minister would like to see the situation once more in person. On this basis, the Prime Minister will give appropriate instructions. That is what I think.

(Abridged)