Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: A moment ago, I believe you and Minister Yukio Edano were at the office of the Prime Minister. Can you describe the discussions that took place, including about the matter of the restarting of operations at Oi (Nuclear Power Station) and the matter of the evacuation zones?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: The Oi matter was not on the agenda at all. We met to gauge the current situation of the areas affected by the nuclear power station accident in the afflicted region of Fukushima. We also exchanged views on the work being done to review the zones. Since we are still in the process of coordinating with the respective municipalities, the current status of these activities was also reported.

REPORTER: If I may ask another question. Today, the Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA) concluded that Kansai Electric Power Company's calculation is valid, which is that Oi has plenty of ability to withstand earthquakes, even if it is assumed that the three faults move simultaneously. This, I believe, brings the technical evaluation to a conclusion. While it was also asked this morning, but with regard to the timing of the four ministers' meeting, as a political decision in response to this, I would think there is some time limit, such as this week or next week. What is the time period you have in mind?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: I believe the four ministers' meeting will be held after the Nuclear Safety Commission's confirmation results are fully reviewed and also we confirm that the necessary safety for the restarting of operations is ensured, while bearing in mind the outcome of NISA's hearing today. As of today, however, the schedule and other details have truly not yet been decided.