Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda held the 23rd meeting of the Government Revitalization Unit at the Prime Minister's Office.

Discussion took place on the outcome of the "proposal-based policy review," the earthquake reinsurance special account, and other matters.

The Prime Minister said in his address, "I believe it was very significant that the 'proposal-based policy review' probed into policy and institutional design rather than limiting itself to the elimination of waste, and that discussions were carried out in a way that the people can see.
The idea of the policy review arose from a desire to examine the variety of challenges facing Japan, together with the people. In particular, I believe this policy review shed light on the challenges to ensuring the sustainability of Japan's financial situation, social security, and other matters.
I, too, had an opportunity to listen in on the discussions at the venue. With active discussions taking place and proposals being compiled in front of many people, I came away with the feeling that I saw a new approach to government administration.
Regarding the question of what guarantees that the proposals will be implemented, I believe the biggest guarantee is that many people from the outside observed the policy review. There were many people who listened in at the actual venue and people who watched it on the Internet. Based on this, I believe it is important that whenever the specific proposals are made they are implemented. The Government as a whole must fully accept the proposals and be responsible for considering them.
In formulating the budget for FY2012, if there are proposals which can be drawn upon immediately, they will be drawn upon. Also, I believe a roadmap will be necessary to fully realize future policies and institutional designs in the medium- to long-term. I urge once again that the ministries take steps to advance these specific considerations."