60 Pct in Japan Oppose Possessing Nuclear Weapons: Jiji Poll

Tokyo, Jan. 15 (Jiji Press)–Over 60 pct of respondents in Japan believe that their country should not possess nuclear weapons, a Jiji Press public opinion poll showed Thursday. The survey found that 62.6 pct of respondents do not agree with a senior government official who last month said Japan should possess nuclear weapons. Those who agree accounted for 16.7 pct, while 20.7 pct were unsure. Among supporters of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s cabinet, 57.6 pct expressed opposition, while 21.8 pct showed support. A separate poll conducted last month asked whether Japan should review its Three Nonnuclear Principles of not possessing, not producing and not permitting the introduction of nuclear weapons, particularly the third rule. Of those surveyed, 46.6 pct said Japan should maintain the current policy, while 28.2 pct favored a review. The official in question made the remark to reporters to emphasize a need to strengthen deterrence amid a severe security environment. Opposition parties have demanded that the official be dismissed. The survey, conducted from Friday to Monday, covered 2,000 individuals aged 18 or older nationwide. Valid responses came from 58.5 pct. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]