Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda attended a meeting of the Forum for Consultations between the National and Regional Governments held at the Prime Minister's Office.

Those attending the meeting on the national government side were: Mr. Osamu Fujimura, Chief Cabinet Secretary; Mr. Tatsuo Kawabata, Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications and Minister of State for Promotion of Local Sovereignty; Mr. Jun Azumi, Minister of Finance; Ms. Yoko Komiyama, Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare; Mr. Motohisa Furukawa, Minister for National Policy; Ms. Renho, Minister of State for Government Revitalization; and others. On the regional government side were representatives of six regional organizations. Discussion took place on child allowance.

The Prime Minister said in his opening address, "There are a variety of critical issues concerning the national and regional governments. I would like the Government's response to be decided by making use of this Forum for Consultations between the National and Regional Governments set forth in the law as well as other forums, and while carefully listening to the array of opinions of regional governments.
Today's agenda is 'child allowance.' It is stated that discussions shall take place by making use of the Forum for Consultations between the National and Regional Governments in the context of the agreement of the three political parties. There were also opinions expressed by participants at the last Forum for Consultations between the National and Regional Governments that they would like to have an exchange of opinions on system design.
Based on these factors, I have established this type of forum for consultation today. I look forward to receiving your proactive and constructive opinions and recommendations."