Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The submission of the letters of resignation from DPJ by former DPJ President Ozawa and others
• The selection of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's chair and members

(Abridged)

REPORTER: At today's Cabinet meeting or in ministerial discussions following the Cabinet meeting, did the Prime Minister or other ministers make any statements regarding yesterday's submission of the letters of resignation from the party by former Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) President Ichiro Ozawa and other party members?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: In ministerial discussions following the Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Noda made a statement not specifically in reference to the letters of resignation that you asked about a moment ago, but in reference to yesterday marking exactly the tenth full month of the Noda Cabinet. He stated that while the recent events are causing a variety of difficulties for Cabinet members at this time, he will move forward with a resolve to rebuild a new DPJ. He asked for the continued cooperation of Cabinet members as they engage in Government and Cabinet affairs with a sense of tension.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Regarding a different matter, I understand that the administration has compiled guidelines on the selection of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's chair and members. I believe the guidelines exclude those involved with the so-called Nuclear Power Village. What is your outlook on the selection of the personnel who will be subject to the Diet's consent?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: I understand that Nuclear Power Policy and Administration Minister Goshi Hosono is, precisely at this moment, explaining the contents of your question and related matters in specific detail in his post-Cabinet meeting press conference. Therefore, for details, please direct your questions to Minister Hosono. As you are aware, the regulatory agency, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, will be launched on the day specified in the cabinet order within three months of the date of promulgation, which was June 27. In the meantime, the personnel will be selected according to the guidelines which will be presented today. As these are people who will serve as the chair and members of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, I believe those who are fit for the critical tasks will be selected going forward. I believe the Diet's consent will be obtained thereafter during this period.

(Abridged)