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Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Shii expresses opposition to deployment of U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to Yokosuka

Japanese Communist Party Chair Shii Kazuo on June 15 expressed his firm opposition to the deployment of a U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the U.S. Yokosuka Naval Base in Kanagawa Prefecture on the grounds that it will enable the U.S. forces to use Yokosuka as a permanent homeport for their aircraft carrier and that it will expose residents to danger.

He made the remarks at a press conference in answer to a question regarding Yokosuka City Mayor Kabaya Ryoichi's acceptance of the deployment of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the city.

Shii pointed out that experts share the view that nuclear reactors installed on warships run a higher risk of accident than land-based reactors because they are built in a limited space and are constantly shaken because of aircraft take-offs and landings. He stressed, "If it is deployed, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier will stay in Yokosuka at least for half a year. As 30 million people are living in Japan's capital area, we must not allow such a plan to be implemented."

On the same day, the Defense Facilities Administration Agency revealed that the Japanese and U.S. governments are planning to deploy the U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington to Yokosuka in June 2008.
- Akahata, June 16, 2006