Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• Restarting operations at nuclear power stations (Oi Nuclear Power Station)
• North Korea

REPORTER: Last weekend, Asahi Shimbun conducted a public opinion survey in the six prefectures of the Kinki region and also Fukui Prefecture concerning the restarting of operations at the nuclear power station (Oi Nuclear Power Station). Regarding the scope of local consent needed to restart operations, respondents were given four choices. The percentage of respondents who said the consent of municipalities other than Fukui Prefecture is also needed rose to 59%. In particular, on the question of whether the consent of Kyoto and Shiga is also needed, the percentage who said yes rose to 86% - quite a high percentage. Although I believe it is difficult for the Government to respond to each and every public opinion survey, what does the Government intend to do in response to this high percentage of people in the Kansai region who say their clear consent is needed more than further understanding?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: With regard to Shiga and Kyoto Prefectures, I understand that today, the Senior Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry has gone there and first has given a variety of explanations - or he may still be doing that. As I believe information may still be insufficient, the Government will be providing thorough explanations in order if related areas request an explanation, as with Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City, among other places. Or if there are recommendations, the Government will also listen to them. The Government would like to take careful steps based on such a posture.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Earlier, North Korea announced that it will shortly begin to take special measures or special actions. Do you have any information about this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: This has been reported by the Korean Central News Agency. From the standpoint of ensuring the safety of Japan and the peace and stability of the international community, the Government will continue to coordinate closely with relevant countries and strive to collect and analyze information on North Korea. However, I would like to refrain from commenting now on each and every word and action spoken or taken by North Korea. At any event, as stated in the Presidential Statement of the United Nations Security Council issued on April 16, Japan will urge North Korea not to conduct any further nuclear tests or any provocative actions.

(Abridged)