From Matsushita filling 20f:
Loss Contingencies
Loss contingencies may from time to time arise from situations such as product liability claims, warranty claims, disputes over intellectual property rights, environmental remediation obligations, and other legal actions. Loss contingencies are recorded as liabilities when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable. Disclosure is required when there is a reasonable possibility that the ultimate loss will exceed the recorded provision. Contingent liabilities are often resolved over long time periods. In recording liabilities for probable losses, management is required to make estimates and judgments regarding the amount or range of the probable loss. Management continually assesses the adequacy of estimated loss contingencies and, if necessary, adjusts the amounts recorded as better information becomes known.
http://secfilings.nasdaq.com/filingFrameset.asp?FileName=0001193125%2D07%2D192290%2Etxt&FilePath=%5C2007%5C08%5C30%5C&CoName=MATSUSHITA+ELECTRIC+INDUSTRIAL+CO++LTD&FormType=20%2DF&RcvdDate=8%2F30%2F2007&pdf=