Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: I would like to ask about the budget making process. Today, something like a budget request framework was finalized. In the past, since the change in administration, the administration led by the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) has employed methods that differ from traditional means, including screening processes and public policy contests, using political leadership for the priority-oriented implementation of your policies. On this occasion, and while there is not much time to utilize such different methods, what means do you intend to employ to realize such political leadership following the inauguration of the new administration?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY EDANO: I'm not sure if one could call it "priority-oriented implementation," but in any case, concerning the major framework, we intend to decide on the budgetary request guidelines by mid-September. I believe that is - how should I put it - the essential point. From a practical standpoint, we held discussion in today's Cabinet meeting and the Minister of Finance has made requests to various ministries indicating that we first want the mechanical-like work to be carried out in preparation for the guidelines. Many preparations are going to be made before the budgetary request guidelines are determined in mid-September.

REPORTER: What is to become of public policy contests and other measures that you employed until now?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY EDANO: We intend to conduct an examination based on past developments, organize such matters by early September and then compile the budgetary request guidelines.

REPORTER: I believe that the Prime Minister's so-called special reserves budget will range from around \500 billion to \600 billion. Do you believe that is enough amount?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY EDANO: No decision has been made about a special reserves budget.

(Abridged)