The government may submit to the next regular Diet session starting in January legislation stipulating how Japan would respond to a military attack, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuo Fukuda hinted Thursday.

"I agree with the idea that we should be prepared (for possible crises), instead of doing something once they happen," Fukuda said. "I see the need for the Diet to discuss the issue as soon as possible next year."

Japan has been conducting studies since 1977 on legislation stipulating the activities of the Self-Defense Forces in the event of an attack, but no administration has attempted to introduce it.