Call for cooperation to pass a new virus bill ending ruling party talks

The ruling and opposition leaders end talks. Call for cooperation to pass the new virus bill.March 4 19:52

Over the response to the new coronavirus, Prime Minister Abe talks individually with Constitutional Democratic Party Representative Eno and five opposition party leaders, and an early passage of a bill enabling an "emergency declaration" in preparation for further spread of infection Called for cooperation.

The talks between Prime Minister Abe and the leaders of the five opposition parties will be held individually around 6:00 pm in the Diet, accompanied by Yamaguchi of the Komeito Party and Secretary-General of the Liberal Democratic Party on the second floor, ending just after 7:30 pm Did.

In this case, Prime Minister Abe has a bill that allows the Prime Minister to make a `` declaration of emergency '' in case the infection of the new coronavirus spreads further, and to request and direct local governments to refrain from going out and to close schools. He explained that he was in a hurry to prepare.

He demanded an understanding that he was considering revising the Special Measures Law on New Pandemic Influenza Measures enacted during the Democratic Party's initiative to make it applicable to the new coronavirus for up to two years. Called for cooperation.

In response, the Democratic Representative of the Constitution, Democratic Party Eda, argued that the law could be applied to the new coronavirus under the current law, and argued that it should respond promptly without any need for revision, but said he would cooperate in deliberation of the bill. Was. He further urged careful consideration, as the requirements of the Declaration of Emergency are not being met at this time.

According to Mr. Eno, Prime Minister Abe said, "We will consult in advance when making an emergency declaration. We will also narrow down the target area and period." The government and ruling party are working on drafting the bill, taking into account the opposition parties' opinions expressed at the meeting of the party leaders on April 4, and submitting it to the Diet next week for early passage.