New LDP Leader Takaichi Vows to Address Rising Prices
Tokyo, Oct. 4 Sanae Takaichi, the new leader of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party, vowed to focus on efforts to cope with rising prices at her inaugural press conference on Saturday, noting that she will not rule out a consumption tax cut.
Takaichi, who is now likely to become Japan’s next prime minister, also indicated that the party will hold internal talks on a refundable tax credit program.
Regarding personnel appointments, Takaichi emphasised that she will gather the power of “all (LDP) members and all generations,” including her four rivals in the party leadership election.
Furthermore, she suggested her willingness to appoint those who have been embroiled in a political funds scandal that caused many intraparty factions to disband. “It won’t affect my personnel appointments,” she said.
Takaichi said she plans to finalise party executive appointments as soon as possible in the week from Sunday. The party’s secretary-general, in particular, “should be someone who can engage with all parties and has a broad view of the party,” she added.
In seeking to expand the ruling coalition, the new LDP leader stressed the need for policy alignment regarding constitutional reform, diplomacy, security and fiscal policy.
She also noted the importance of ensuring transparency in political fund management.
Meanwhile, Takaichi said she will “make an appropriate decision” on whether to visit the war-related Yasukuni Shrine during her tenure.
She also underscored the importance of strengthening the Japan-US alliance and expressed her commitment to implementing the two countries’ tariff agreement.
AloJapan.com