Koizumi and Hosokawa launch new association for renewables

May 7, 2014

Former PMs launch group for renewable energy

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20140507_45.html

Former Japanese prime ministers Morihiro Hosokawa and Junichiro Koizumi have launched an organization dedicated to ending Japan's reliance on nuclear power.

Hosokawa ran for Tokyo governor in February pledging to work for that goal, but finished third. Koizumi supported his campaign.

The two, along with other founders, held an inaugural meeting of the association in Tokyo on Wednesday.

The group will promote the use of renewable energy sources to end nuclear power generation in Japan.

Group representative Hosokawa referred to an energy plan the government approved last month. Under the plan, nuclear plants will be allowed to resume operation if they meet new safety standards.

Hosokawa denounced the plan, saying the government had not reflected on the 2011 nuclear disaster at all.

He said he campaigned in the Tokyo gubernatorial election determined to fight these absurdities and will continue working to correct what should be corrected.

Koizumi said he had been telling the public that the claim that nuclear generation is safe and low-cost is a big lie.

Koizumi added he will work with Hosokawa to promote renewable energy and create a nation without nuclear power.

The organization plans to hold town meetings across the country. It will oppose restarting nuclear reactors and exporting nuclear plant technology.

The group may also support candidates in nationwide local elections next year.

May 7, 2014 - Updated 13:00 UTC