Feb 26 • 12:16 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Social Security 'National Conference' Starts, Discussing Zero Consumption Tax on Food - Major Opposition Parties Do Not Participate

The inaugural meeting of the 'Social Security National Conference' took place, discussing the potential for a zero consumption tax on food, but only one opposition party participated amidst concerns from others.

The 'Social Security National Conference' commenced with a focus on discussions surrounding the proposal for a zero percent consumption tax on food and other related measures like income-based tax credits. The meeting, held at the Prime Minister's Office, included participants from the government and the ruling party, along with Team Mirai from the opposition. However, other major opposition parties, including the Central Reform Union and the Democratic Party for the People, opted out of participation due to reservations regarding the conditions imposed on the meeting's composition. The government is actively seeking to broaden participation from these parties, emphasizing the importance of inclusive dialogue.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized during the meeting the need for a national debate on social security that encompasses all generations and brings about a sense of agreement regarding benefits and burdens. Discussions will continue under the auspices of both the Prime Minister and responsible ministers from the participating parties. There are plans to form a 'Working Group' composed of practical members from each party, alongside an 'Expert Committee' to delve into more specific evaluations and proposals moving forward.

The initial meeting concluded in about 15 minutes, during which representatives from various parties offered their remarks. Prominent among them was Fumitake Fujita, co-representative from the Japan Innovation Party, who expressed his commitment to proposing sincere and feasible ideas for the benefit of the populace. Meanwhile, Takahiro Anno, the leader of Team Mirai, reiterated his party's objective of discussing the sustainability of the social security system, while voicing dissent against any reduction in consumption tax. The government is aiming to advance this national conference's agenda, targeting significant discussions by June.

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