Japanese → English transcript

Umemura Mizuho-kun, I'm asking whether you are aware.

It's not that — this was when Their Majesties the Emperor Emeritus and Empress were on the throne.

They showed such concern for the people and for our country.

Yet despite that having been demonstrated, we are being presented with forceful, pushy opinions

—must we simply swallow them?

I think there are citizens of our country who, if possible, want to return to the soil — to Japanese soil — to be buried.

However, we seek harmony and also place importance on public health, so isn't there a reality that cremation is chosen?

Isn't that the situation? Our country is one where, when in a place, you follow the local customs.

You should state clearly that ours is a country where one follows the local customs.

Of course, there are Muslims who reside legally and work earnestly,

and who, as members of Japanese society, contribute to our country.

We are, of course, aware that there are many such people, but

their values and cultural norms sometimes differ from the general sensibilities of us Japanese.

That is naturally the case. Precisely because of that, when accepting them into society,

we must properly recognize that there will be both positive effects and negative ones.

And the political side must clearly draw the line on what is okay and what is not—

otherwise, I want to say, local communities will be in trouble.

The problems between Muslims and the existing society are things we should learn about

from what is happening now in Europe and the West, shouldn't we?

I think so. If one ends their life in Japan, they must either be cremated or

at their own expense arrange international transport of the remains and request burial in their home country.

As I said earlier, I want people to recognize that.

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

I believe that is necessary. I haven't given notice about this question,

but finally — could I have one more word from the minister?

But could the Minister say one last thing?

Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare Ueno, speaking from the position of overseeing the law,

as I have said earlier, it is, in principle, handled as a matter of local government affairs,

so, while taking regional guidance into account, please consider it

at each respective municipality, and we would be grateful if you would do so.

Umemura Minatoko-kun: No additional soil-layer cemeteries

are necessary. I respectfully request politics that put Japanese people first.

With that, I end my question. Thank you.