One crucial problem remained: How should the decision be presented to the nation? President of the Information Board Kainan Shimomura suggested that the Emperor broadcast an imperial rescript. It was distasteful, but words about capitulation would be believed only if they came from his mouth. The Cabinet unanimously agreed, with one proviso: it would be presumptuous to ask His Majesty to speak directly to his subjects over the airwaves. It should be a recording.
