Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• The use of smartphones and tablets during plenary sessions
• The ferry accident in the Republic of Korea

REPORTER: I have a question concerning today's board meeting of the Standing Committee on Rules and Administration of the House of Representatives. I understand the board discussed the use of smartphones and tablets during plenary sessions and committee meetings. According to Chairman Aisawa’s briefing, the Government asked the committee to discuss the use of these devices. Chairman Aisawa said that given the changing conditions surrounding technology use today, he would like to once again review the use of such devices. What are the thoughts of the Government on this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Currently the use of mobile phones is not permitted in Diet meetings. However, in cases of emergency, for example the launch of a missile, the details of the incident, such as the circumstances and timing of the launch, need to be communicated urgently. In cases where the information is sent to a mobile phone a secretary must then pass the information onto the Prime Minister or other Cabinet members. Writing down all the information takes time and, since this would likely be done in a rush, it is also possible that transcription errors may arise. Therefore, the Government believes that it is in fact more desirable to directly pass on information received on a mobile device as it is. As such, via the ruling parties, the Government asked the Standing Committee on Rules and Administration of the House of Representatives to grant an exemption to the rule. However, in any case, as this matter concerns happenings in the Diet, discussion will therefore take place among Diet members. I believe that in reality, permitting the use of these devices will allow us to better fulfil our responsibilities to the public.

(Abridged)　

REPORTER: I would like to once again ask a question in relation to the ferry accident in the Republic of Korea (ROK). Could you tell us the latest information on the status of Japanese nationals and if the ROK has requested cooperation from Japan?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: At this time, I have not been informed that any Japanese nationals were affected. However, the ROK Government is undertaking  full-fledged rescue efforts and I sincerely hope that those who are missing are rescued as soon as possible. The Korea Coast Guard expressed its gratitude for the Japan Coast Guard's offer of cooperation, but the Korea Coast Guard has not requested Japan for help. However, if the ROK does request for help, we stand ready to offer our cooperation.

REPORTER: I would like to seek clarification over something you just said. Am I right to understand that the Korea Coast Guard expressed its gratitude to the Japan Coast Guard for being ready to offer cooperation?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: That is correct. 

(Abridged)