11.   There are growing concerns that pursuing a debate on the break-up of the finance ministry would scotch any quick resolution of the jusen issue.

12.   Share prices of leading banks rallied steadily through December on optimism of a deal emerging to resolve the jusen bad debt issue.

13.   Some analysts are of mixed opinion on how a government commitment to a review of ministry functions could affect the resolution of the jusen issue.

14.   The LDP has refused to summon Kato, saying the alleged donation was not directly linked to the jusen issue.