The LDP still insists that the LTCB is too big, and too exposed internationally, to fail.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia

Opposition leaders oppose that idea, arguing that LTCB instead ought to be temporarily nationalized and, if necessary, shut down.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia

The LTCB is a case in point: despite rumors of the bank's imminent collapse, the government so far has not publicized the scope of the bank's problems.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia

It is encouraging that under this new framework LTCB was temporarily nationalized, and that most of the major banks have indicated their intent to apply for public capital injections.

CNN: REFORM IS CRUCIAL

In June, word leaked that the Japanese government was so nervous about the LTCB's financial liabilities that it was planning to merge the bank with Sumitomo Trust and Banking.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia