October 1, 2012
Cabinet Decision
[Provisional Translation]

The three political-level appointees [of each Ministry, etc.], headed by each Cabinet Minister, will devote themselves to their duties in accordance with the following Basic Policy.

1. We will work with "sincere spirit and just intent" toward the realization of politics that is oriented toward the general public, thus ensuring that the people of Japan can feel the true significance of the change of Government. In addition, we will take decisive action on challenges which cannot be put off, and thereby, secure public confidence in politics.
   
   
2. We will continue to make every effort to achieve the recovery and reconstruction from the Great East Japan Earthquake, the fight against the nuclear accident, and the revitalization of the Japanese economy, which are the priorities of the Noda Cabinet.
   
   
3. Duly based on the needs of the disaster-affected regions, we will robustly promote recovery and reconstruction from the Great East Japan Earthquake, with efforts being led by the Reconstruction Agency.
   
   
4. Based on the concept that "without the rebirth of Fukushima, there can be no rebirth for vibrant Japan," we will make every effort toward the reconstruction and rebirth of Fukushima.
   
   
5. Based on the three-party agreement among the Democratic Party of Japan, Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito Party, we will continue to make every effort toward the realization of the comprehensive reform of social security and taxation systems, including issues that remain outstanding. Furthermore, in order to ensure a turnaround in the economy prior to the raise in the consumption tax, we will implement seamless economic measures, including expeditious public spending.
   
   
6. In addition to implementing measures to counteract the hollowing out of domestic industry, including means to address the appreciation of the yen, we will appropriately address international credit uncertainty. Furthermore, as well as seeking to overcome energy constraints in the near term, we will advance efforts to realize the Comprehensive Strategy for the Rebirth of Japan. In so doing, we will aim to extricate Japan from a deflationary economy in the short term, realize economic revitalization, and achieve mid- to long-term economic growth and the "revival of a large middle class."
   
   
7. With regard to future energy and environment policy, based on the "Innovative Strategy f or Energy and the Environment" (decided by the Energy and Environment Council on September 14, 2012), we will engage in responsible discussions with local governments concerned and members of the international community. While attaining the understanding of the people of Japan, we will execute policy, making unceasing efforts to implement verification and revisions with flexibility.
   
   
8. We will dynamically promote measures to root out "waste in public administration," such as strengthening efforts to engage in administrative revitalization, reform of the civil service, reduction in civil servant personnel expenses, reform of the special account system and independent administrative agencies, and local sovereignty reforms, including the abolition of ministerial branch offices in principle, and gain public understanding for such reforms. In addition, we will work to realize political reforms in cooperation with the ruling parties.
   
   
9. In order to realize our vision of "Japan, a country of hope and pride," we will advance policies that seek out new frontiers, devise and create sustainable regional development models, and develop human resources capable of making an impact in the global arena.
   
   
10. With regard to emergency situations, such as large-scale natural disasters and serious incidents and accidents domestically and overseas that may threaten the lives, health, and assets of the people of Japan, we will always remain alert and make every effort to ensure a crisis management response, including swift mobilization at the onset of a situation, dissemination of accurate information to the people, as well as making thorough preparations for unforeseen contingencies.
    
    
11. In addition to further advancing Japan's foreign policy based on the Japan-United   States alliance as the linchpin, we will deepen multifaceted ties with the countries of Asia, including the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Korea, and other countries around the world. Furthermore, we will advance economic diplomacy, including high-level economic partnerships and securing of energy resources.
    
    
12. We will fulfill our responsibility to protect Japan's sovereignty, territory and territorial waters, including remote islands that are a cornerstone for Japan as a maritime nation, in accordance with international law. Furthermore, we will continue to contribute to the enhancement of the "rule of law" in the international community.
    
    
13. Each Cabinet Minister will work in close cooperation with his or her Cabinet colleagues without seeking to further the interests of only one ministry, and will make concerted efforts under the leadership of Prime Minister Noda to address head-on the various policy challenges both domestically and overseas. In addition, each Cabinet Minister will listen humbly to the opinions of the people of Japan, providing careful explanations, in due recognition of the weight that ministerial statements hold. Furthermore, efforts will be made to advance cooperation between ruling and opposition parties.
    
    
14. Under the concept of "leadership by politicians," the three political-level appointees and bureaucrats will clearly delineate their respective roles and responsibilities and engage in the close sharing of information with each other and in mutual communication. In this way, they will maximize their various strengths, thus ensuring that the Government works as a unified whole in the execution of policy management and implementation.