Provisional translation

Press Conference by Shoichi Nakagawa, Minister of Finance and Minister for Financial Services

(Excerpt)

October 24, 2008

[Questions and Answers]

Q.

I understand that the bill for amendment of the Act on Special Measures for Strengthening Financial Functions was formalized at today’s cabinet meeting. Although the bill is scheduled to be submitted to the Diet today, it faces several problems, including the Democratic Party of Japan’s expression of concern about a provision that allows capital injection into Norinchukin Bank. Could you tell me about your outlook on the Diet deliberations on this bill?

A.

Lawmakers in the Diet and the government will work together on this bill, as I believe that it is desirable to pass it as soon as possible so that we can strengthen the foundations of financial institutions.

(End)