Following is the gist of remarks made by Mr. Takashi Imai, Chairman, Keidanren, on the scheduled press conference of 8 May 2000. Translation is rush and tentative, and sequence of the gist does not necessarily coincide with words delivered.
Japanese economy between January and March have grown profoundly, as much as 2%, therefore I feel no needs for additional economic package at this moment.
The difference between what NTT says and the U. S. government says on how to reduce NTT interconnection fee is a matter of rate reduction schedule and should not be difficult to resolve. However, the law governing NTT must be revised into a comprehensive law governing the entire information and telecommunications industry as the current laws cannot meet today's changing world.
Regarding electric commerce, the government must create favorable business climate including rules and regulations. Meanwhile, the business should try utmost to meet international competition through further improving productivity. For this purpose Keidanren is now drafting a policy proposal to the government.
Regarding non-bank companies entering banking businesses, those who wish to enter banking business should take risks and avoid problems to occur. Of course, the new entry should be governed by all bank-related regulations of the times if they enter full-fledged banking businesses.
Keidanren welcomes Nikkeiren initiatives to discuss merger issue further. The problem hindering merger is the handling of regional members of Nikkeiren. At this moment, Keidanren is waiting for the result of Nikkeiren's discussions.
Facing tragic incident during the Golden Week holidays, I believe that Japan should keep discussing on social and moral implications on education. Keidanren may not propose a concrete resolution but will keep studying and discussing on this matter, too.