Japan approves $50bn for reconstruction

JAPAN’S government proposed a special $50 billion (€34bn) budget to help finance reconstruction efforts and plans to build 100,000 temporary homes for survivors of last month’s devastating earthquake and tsunami.

The twin disasters destroyed roads, ports, farms and homes and crippled a nuclear power plant that forced tens of thousands of more people to evacuate their houses for at least several months. The government said the damage could cost $309bn, making it the world’s most expensive natural disaster.

Prime Minister Naoto Kan said he was moved by conversations with victims during a tour of shelters.