Japanese → English transcript

Ms. Mizuhō Uemura, I am asking whether you are aware of this or not.

That is not it. When Their Majesties the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Emerita were present,

they showed us that they care this deeply about the people and about our country,

and yet, are we supposed to just keep swallowing these pushy opinions

one after another?

Among our country’s people as well, if it were possible, there are those who would want to return to the land, to Japanese soil,

who would wish to go back many times over, I believe.

However, because we act in harmony and

because we place great importance on public health, is it not the case that we are choosing cremation?

I want it to be clearly stated that our country is one where, when in Rome, you do as the Romans do.

That must be said plainly.

Of course, I am fully aware that there are many Muslim people who reside here lawfully, work diligently,

and contribute to our country as members of Japanese society.

Naturally I understand that. However, when it comes to values, culture, and a sense of justice,

there are obviously aspects that differ from the general sensibilities of us Japanese.

That is exactly why, when we accept them into society,

we must properly keep in mind that there will be positive influences and also those that are not so positive,

and I wish to say that the political side must draw a clear line as to what is okay and what is not okay,

otherwise local governments will end up in trouble.

I think that regarding the issues between Muslim people and our existing society,

we must learn from what is happening right now in Europe and America.

If you are going to end your life in Japan, it must be cremation, or, at your own expense at high cost,

you must arrange for international transport of the remains and ask that it be handled in your home country.

I have already said that I want people to recognize this.

However, I believe that we, the members of the Diet and the political side, need to show our stance on this through law.

I did not really give advance notice of this question,

but could I ask the minister for one last word once more?

From my position as Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare Ueno, who has jurisdiction over the law,

as I have been saying from earlier, this is organized purely as a matter of local autonomy,

so while taking into account how it is implemented in each region,

I would like to ask that each local government conduct its own consideration.

Uemura Mizuho here. We do not need any more layered soil cemeteries than we have now.

I humbly ask for your support for politics that put Japanese people first.

I will now conclude my questions. Thank you very much.