Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to change the subject. I believe the Chancellor of the Exchequer of the United Kingdom visited you a short while ago. Can you tell us what views were exchanged between the two of you? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Chancellor of the Exchequer Hammond was previously Foreign Secretary. Therefore, we exchanged views regarding matters such as the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union (EU) and Japan-UK economic issues. In addition, a general exchange of views took place regarding the nuclear power station construction project of the United Kingdom.

REPORTER: I have a question related to what was just noted. It was reported that the Japanese Government would provide financial assistance for the nuclear power station construction project that is being planned in the United Kingdom. What is the current status of the Government’s considerations? If the reports are true, can you tell us the aim behind this financial assistance?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Hitachi, Ltd. aims to commence operation in the mid-2020s. We understand that the financing element will be reviewed based on this time schedule. It is not true that the Government has decided to provide any form of assistance. 

REPORTER: A related question. What did the Chancellor say about the impacts of the United Kingdom’s exit from the EU, particularly in regard to its impacts on Japan? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Many Japanese companies are doing business in the United Kingdom. Therefore, I, in my capacity, requested the United Kingdom to provide an explanation including advance provision of various information leading up to the exit, in order to ensure that these companies are not placed in a difficult situation.