Functions of the General Council on Science and Technology in the Reform of Government Agencies

Abstract

The present administrative reform involves restructuring of governmental agencies in the largest scale after WWII. Its implication on science and technology policy in the next century is also important. In the specific field of science and technology, the reform will result in (1)establishment of a General Council on Science and Technology, (2)Unification of the Science and Technology Agency and the Ministry of Education, and (3)restructuring of national research institutes into independent administrative corporations. The present paper describes specifically the functions of the General Council on Science and Technology according to information from the Administrative Reform Committee, the Fundamental Law on Reform of Government Agencies, and the laws on establishment of government agencies. The items below are systematically described. -Historical:Proposal in the Administrative Reform Committee in August 1997. -Nature of the Council:Conceived as an institution to support Prime Minister's leadership;a "forum of wisdom" as different from ordinary councils. -Tasks:Study of and discussion on fundamental strategy and resource allocation for science and technology, evaluation of nationally important projects. -Membership:The Prime Minister, ministers concerned, directors general of agencies concerned, and experts. -Secretariat:Established in the Cabinet Office. -Coordination with other agencies:Generally by the Cabinet Office;coordination between government agencies by the Ministry of Education and Science.