Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba told Mainichi Shimbun in an exclusive interview on July 2 that the government plans to start giving ¥20,000 to ¥40,000 in cash to all citizens within this year, saying it “needs to happen quickly to be meaningful.” He said the payments would likely begin soon after the extra budget is passed and would use bank accounts linked to Japan’s My Number ID cards to speed things up and reduce paperwork.
Regarding the upcoming Upper House election, Ishiba said the goal is for the ruling coalition to win at least a majority of the total 125 seats (including those not up for election), acknowledging that the political environment is tough and that conservative alternatives to the LDP, like Sanseito, are gaining attention.
On possibly expanding the LDP-Komeito coalition, Ishiba said it’s one option, but any new coalition must agree on key issues like foreign policy, national security, and the economy—he ruled out alliances based on single issues.
Addressing the ongoing surge in rice prices, Ishiba said the government may provide financial support to farmers who cut production costs and boost exports. He called rice exports a form of “strategic stockpiling” and said it’s reasonable for taxpayers to help fund such efforts. He also mentioned support for farmers in mountainous areas who help preserve water sources, noting their unique challenges and importance.
by MagazineKey4532