TOKYO- Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan shrugged off calls for his resignation and said on Monday he intends to fulfil his duty until the next lower house election, which must be held by late 2013.

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"Carrying out the administration's duties for a four year term and then letting the people decide at the ballot box is best for the people themselves," Kan told a parliamentary session.

"I intend to firmly fulfil my duty until that time comes."