Regarding the new benefits that the government and the ruling party are considering to support pensioners, Komeito's secretary-general Ishii emphasized that there is a clear policy objective, but said that it is only part of the comprehensive measures. He expressed his intention to consider economic measures that take into consideration other than pensioners.
In response to the 0.4% reduction in pension payments for the new fiscal year, the government and the ruling party are planning to provide new benefits to support pensioners, but opposition parties say, "We are aiming for the Upper House election." Has been criticized.
Regarding this, Komeito's secretary-general Ishii said at a press conference, "I know that there are various criticisms, but considering the protracted corona disaster and soaring prices of crude oil and food, it also has a clear policy purpose. I am proposing to the government. "
On the other hand, he said, "It is positioned as a part of comprehensive measures, not only for pensioners. We are thinking of additional economic measures that will spread to many other people." He also expressed his intention to consider economic measures that take into consideration other than those who are not.
In addition, regarding measures against soaring crude oil prices, Mr. Ishii said that it would take time even if it were to be activated because it would be necessary to amend the law to unfreeze the "trigger clause" that suspends the taxation of the additional portion of the gasoline tax. He said that continuous measures should be taken, such as in combination with the government's subsidy increase.