Statement by the Chief Cabinet Secretary on the Mid-term Defence Plan

(FY1996-FY2000)

(Tentative Unofficial Translation)

December 14,1995

Today, by the meeting of the Security Council, the Government of Japan decided "On the Mid-Term Defense Plan (FY1996-FY2000)."

This plan is the first mid-term defense build-up plan based on the new Defense Outline decided last month. The plan is formulated to continue to make efforts to maintain and upgrade the moderate defense capability on the continuous and premeditated basis and thereby achieving the defense capability which Japan should possess that is set forth in the new defense outline.

In the Mid-Term Defense Plan, the ceiling of the total amount of the expenditures required for its implementation is estimated approximately at JPY 25.15 trillion at FY1995 price, i.e., of annual increase by 2.1% on the average. Furthermore, to meet additional needs such as response to an unpredictable situation in the future and confidence building with the surrounding countries, about JPY 110 billion, i.e., annual increase by 0.15% on the average may be appropriated for adjustment in addition to the aforesaid total amount.

This appropriation for adjustment shall be expended with approval of the Security Council of Japan. In compiling budget each year, however, the ceiling of about JPY 25.15 trillion is in principle the basic factor to be considered.

The Government of Japan will report the present decision to the Diet, and earnestly asks for the understanding and the cooperation of the Japanese people.