Present status of safeguards implementation in Japan

The fact that the research, development and utilization of nuclear energy in Japan is strictly limited to peaceful purposes is stressed by making reference to Japan's Atomic Energy Basic Law and the legal framework. One of the basic policies of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and of the Japanese Government from the beginning has been to recycle and fully utilize plutonium, since this material is a very precious energy source for Japan. Another policy of the AEC and the Government is that international safeguards and the State System of Accounting and Control (SSAC) of nuclear materials should be fully and strictly enforced. The nuclear share of total electricity generation and the total amount of nuclear materials, as well as the number of facilities under safeguards, are discussed. Japan's national safeguards system is explained with reference to the role of the Nuclear Material Control Center, which is responsible for conducting destructive and non-destructive assays, among other tasks. A description is given of typical safeguards techniques and research and development activities, including those which are being conducted currently on reprocessing plants. The paper also discusses the co-operative relationship with the IAEA in the field of safeguards and inspection activities, and research and development work designed to contribute to more efficient and more effective safeguards. In this connection, reference is made to various extra-budgetary contributions made by the Japanese Government. The Government is prepared to contribute to the effort of the IAEA in streamlining the safeguards system to cope with the growing safeguards requirements and to overcome financial constraints. (author). 2 figs, 2 tabs