Alexander from Germany sent me a letter. He is very interested in politics and wants to learn more. If you have a question or opinion, please send me a letter or e-mail.

Welcome to the Kids' Page of Nobuteru Ishihara. I am a Member of the Japanese House of Representatives. Many young people ask me questions about my job. I always enjoy answering kids' questions because it helps them learn about government and politics. Below, I have written answers to some of the questions kids often ask. I hope my answers teach you something new !

■ Why did you become a politician?
My dad is also a politician. When I was 11-years-old, I saw him make a speech on television for the first time. I was very proud of my dad. Everyday, he worked hard to make Japan a better place. People had voted for him to be their leader. "Someday," I thought to myself, "I want to be a leader too."

After graduating from college, I became a television reporter. Being a reporter helped me learn about government and politics. I learned how politicians make laws that improve people's lives. I also learned how politicians inspire people to reach their goals. Even though I enjoyed being a reporter, I still dreamed about becoming a politician. I wanted to help create a better Japan.

In 1990, I ran for election to the Japanese House of Representatives. I gave a lot of speeches and shook many voters' hands. I told people about how I thought we could work together to improve Japan. In the end, the voters elected me to be their leader. My dream had come true!

■ What does a Member of the Japanese House of Representatives do?
As a politician, I work with other politicians and government officials to create national laws. I also give speeches to large groups of people, and talk with television and newspaper reporters about my views and ideas. Finally, I study important political issues by talking with experts and reading books, newspapers, magazines, and the Internet. Sometimes, I study so much that I feel like I am still in school!

Many people write me letters and visit my offices. They often want to share their opinions or to ask for help with their problems. I think that listening to people is one of the most important parts of being a politician. It is hard to make everybody happy, but I always try my best. Being a politician can be difficult and stressful, but it is always very exciting!

■ How can I become a leader?
Adults are not the only people who can be leaders. Kids can be leaders too. Starting today, you can help make the world a better place. Do not be afraid to share your ideas about how to improve your school, city, nation, or world. Learn about important issues by reading books, surfing the Internet, watching the news, and talking with your parents and teachers. More importantly, listen to the opinions of others and use teamwork to create change.

Becoming a politician is a great way to be a leader. Each day, I try to help solve people's problems. Serving other people is very rewarding and is the most important part of being a leader. You do not have to become a politician to be a leader. People like doctors, teachers, lawyers, firefighters, engineers, and police officers can also be leaders. No matter what sort of job you have, you can always work with others to make the world a better place.

I enjoy hearing from young people who are interested in government and politics. Please send me an e-mail message about any issue of interest to you: nobuteru@nobuteru.or.jp