Public Sends Mixed Messages on Post-Disaster Policies

Nearly two-thirds of respondents to an NHK survey say that they don't approve of the government's handling of the Fukushima nuclear crisis. However, an even greater number support the shutdown of the Hamaoka plant at the urging of Prime Minister Kan. The government says it will review Japan's long-term energy policy with the goal of reducing dependence on nuclear power. However, it has not yet set out concrete measures. As for aid to people directly affected by the nuclear crisis, it has put forth a timetable but is still working out the specifics of compensation.