No need to rush

January 14, 2014

Motegi: Basic energy policy won't be rushed

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20140114_27.html

Japan's industry minister Toshimitsu Motegi says he doesn't want to rush the process of finalizing the government's new basic energy policy, which includes the future of nuclear power.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Motegi indicated that parts of the ministry's draft need to be amended and Cabinet approval could be put off until next month. The ministry had aimed at gaining approval by the end of this month.

Motegi noted that the government has received more than 19,000 comments on energy policy from the public. He also said the ruling Liberal Democratic Party has given a questionnaire to its legislators.

Motegi said that opinions on nuclear power are greatly divided and more in-depth discussions are necessary, especially on how to ultimately dispose of nuclear waste.

Motegi disclosed that the new basic policy would not include specific plans on construction of new nuclear power plants.