The non-partisan Federation of Diet Members for the ILC (FDMILC, Chair: Hon. Takeo Kawamura of the House of Representatives) held its annual general meeting on November 13th. They confirmed they would strengthen their call on the national government to make its position on the ILC clear within the year.

Around 100 people were in attendance – eleven Diet members, researchers, and officials from related organizations. Hon. Kawamura said, “The world is waiting on a decision from Japan. We will continue to urge the national government to make a decision.”

There was also a presentation on the current status of the Liberal Democratic Party’s Liaison Council for the ILC. FDMILC Vice-chair Hon. Shunichi Suzuki (Iwate 2nd district) said, “In January, serious deliberations will start on Europe’s next 5-year plan for particle physics. In order to get the ILC positioned as a priority project, Japan is being called on to voice its strong interest in the project as well as start international negotiations. This non-partisan federation will work together to get a decision from the national government.”

Researchers and members from the Advanced Accelerator Association also gave presentations on their preparations for the ILC.