Article 71. In the cases mentioned in the two preceding
articles, the Cabinet shall continue its functions until the time
when a new Prime Minister is appointed.

Article 72. The Prime Minister, representing the Cabinet,
submits bills, reports on general national affairs and foreign
relations to the Diet and exercises control and supervision over
various administrative branches.

Article 73. The Cabinet, in addition to other general
administrative functions, shall perform the following functions:
(i) Administer the law faithfully; conduct affairs of
state;
(ii) Manage foreign affairs;
(iii) Conclude treaties. However, it shall obtain prior
or, depending on circumstances, subsequent
approval of the Diet;
(iv) Administer the civil service, in accordance with
standards established by law;
(v) Prepare the budget, and present it to the Diet;
(vi) Enact cabinet orders in order to execute the provisions
of this Constitution and of the law. However, it cannot
include penal provisions in such cabinet orders unless
authorized by such law.
(vii) Decide on general amnesty, special amnesty,
commutation of punishment, reprieve, and
restoration of rights.

Article 74. All laws and cabinet orders shall be signed by
the competent Minister of state and countersigned by the Prime