Following is the gist of remarks made by Mr. Takashi Imai, Chairman, Keidanren, at a scheduled press conference 30 July 2001. Translation is rush and tentative, and sequence of the gist does not necessarily coincide with words delivered.
(Asked on how he reviews the House of Councilors election)
I appreciate this result for stability of political regime. However, looking into how this is achieved, the coalition relied entirely on popularity of the Prime Minister Koizumi. Many of non-party committed voters who voted for the Democrats three years ago voted for the Prime Minister's reform agenda this time, not particularly for traditional LDP. The Prime Minister should implement his promised reforms, really without a sanctuary. He should pave the way so that citizens will be again confident of the future of this country.
(Asked on post-election economic management)
Global economy is plunging due to the burst of U. S. IT bubble. Even industrial analysts are split over when to recover, and this plunge is spreading around the world. Meanwhile, Japanese economy has two major problems: One is stagnation in private consumption, and the other is continuing deflation. To tackle the first, it is necessary for the government to implement the promised reforms; and the Bank of Japan must take care of the second, even though available tools are limited.
(Asked on how he views on so-called safety net)
One must remember that the government has expanded mandatory employment insurance in April. It must also be understood that the government bears very little, and the rest is born by companies and individuals. It is therefore of utmost importance and responsibilities of companies and individuals to leap on to new opportunities created by deregulations, incentives and reforms to be compiled and implemented by the Koizumi government, before ever talking about expanding the social safety net. The Prime Minister has enough backing of the public to do that, proven through the result of this election.