TOKYO - An NHK opinion poll shows the approval rate for the Cabinet of Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has fallen below 30 percent for the first time since he took office two years ago.
NHK conducted the telephone survey over the weekend. More than 1,200 people responded.
The Cabinet's approval rate stood at 29 percent, down 7 points from last month. The disapproval rate was 52 percent, a rise of 8 points.
Among those who approve of the Cabinet, 45 percent said it seems preferable to possible alternatives, while 26 percent said it is made up of political parties they support.
Of those who disapprove, 57 percent said they have low expectations for the Cabinet's policies, and 21 percent said the Cabinet lacks the ability to implement its policies.
The government has revealed a plan to implement measures to mitigate rising prices, including income tax cuts. Asked about the plan, 5 percent said they appreciate it "very much", 31 percent said "to some extent", while 34 percent said "not so much", and 25 percent said "not at all."
Of those who gave positive assessments, 40 percent said it will help with household spending, while 26 percent said it will help rejuvenate Japan's economy. Among those who gave negative assessments, 38 percent said they view it as an attempt to win votes in future elections, while 30 percent said the plan does not address rising prices.
Kishida explains that the upcoming tax cuts and future tax increase aimed at partially financing the defense budget are "not inconsistent."
Asked about the explanation, 19 percent said they are convinced, 67 percent said unconvinced, and 14 percent did not reply or said they are uncertain.
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