Tokyo: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced plans to outline a proposal for a zero consumption tax on food by the upcoming summer. This announcement follows the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) decisive victory in the recent election for the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of Japan's parliament, the Diet.
According to Philippines News Agency, Takaichi expressed her commitment to realizing a two-year consumption tax exemption for food, emphasizing her determination to develop the proposal swiftly. During the election campaign, the LDP pledged to expedite discussions on this matter, aiming to provide relief to consumers.
Takaichi also extended an invitation to opposition parties to participate in a planned national council focused on social security reform. The LDP's election success, securing a two-thirds majority in the Lower House, positions the party to pursue constitutional revisions, which require such a majority in both chambers of the Diet for a national referendum proposal.
In her remarks, Takaichi emphasized her resolve to create conditions conducive to holding a national referendum on constitutional amendments. She expressed hope that the LDP's coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, would accept a cabinet position, to which JIP leader Hirofumi Yoshimura responded positively.
The prime minister also reached out to opposition parties that are inclined to collaborate on policy initiatives. She mentioned exploring the possibility of including the Democratic Party for the People in the ruling coalition, should there be mutual interest.
Addressing the LDP's recent "slush funds" scandal, Takaichi clarified that the party does not view the election victory as public forgiveness. She urged party members involved in the scandal to commit fully to their responsibilities.
On fiscal matters, Takaichi indicated a shift from supplementary budgets to securing necessary funds within initial budgets. She addressed criticism of her administration's fiscal policy by stressing the importance of financial market trust and vigilance over foreign exchange market trends, particularly concerning the yen.
On international relations, Takaichi revealed plans to visit the United States in March for discussions with President Donald Trump. She also addressed Japan-China tensions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining communication with Beijing and responding calmly to issues concerning Taiwan.
Furthermore, Takaichi announced intentions to submit a bill for establishing a national intelligence bureau in the next Diet session. She also addressed her absence from a scheduled television debate on February 1 due to a hand injury, clarifying that it was not an attempt to avoid the debate but a medical necessity advised by Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara.
Despite her absence from the debate, Takaichi continued campaigning in the prefectures of Gifu and Aichi, honoring requests from LDP candidates not to cancel her stump speeches.
