a third-force alliance
永田町があわただしくなってきました。橋下氏の動きが表面化して以来、耳にしないことがないほどよく聞く「第３極」ですが、NHKはa third-force allianceとしています。（GP）
Amid criticism of Noda's hasty decision, DPJ executives are calling for party unity in preparing for the election. That's because some members have publicly announced they've decided to leave the party.
The opposition LDP will also be busy deciding on candidates to field for single-seat constituencies. Their election pledges will be announced as early as next week.
The Japan Restoration Party led by Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto, Your Party and the Sunrise Party headed by out-going Tokyo Governor Shintaro Ishihara are among those exploring the possibility of forming a third-force alliance.
The election will be contested on issues such as the raising the consumption tax, social security and tax reforms, anti-deflationary economy-boosting measures, as well as denuclearization and renewable energy policies.
