Mainichi took up remarks made to the press on Monday by Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato regarding the possibility of a lockdown to flatten the COVID-19 epidemic curve. “We are not at liberty to take compulsory measures associated with legal punishments as seen overseas.” he was quoted as saying. “Such measures would curtail civil liberties significantly. There are issues that would need to be addressed, including how to ensure the effectiveness of punishment.” The top government spokesperson made the comment in response to growing calls from the National Governors’ Association and some LDP politicians for legislation authorizing a lockdown.