農相のうしょうに小泉こいずみ氏し起用きよう 政府せいふ・与党よとう コメ価格かかく安定あんていで信頼しんらい回復かいふく目指めざす

Prime Minister Ishiba has appointed Shinjiro Koizumi of the Liberal Democratic Party as the new Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, replacing the previous minister who resigned over remarks concerning rice.

The government and ruling parties aim to restore trust by stabilizing rice prices, while the opposition parties plan to monitor price trends and hold the government accountable for its response.

Prime Minister Ishiba appointed Shinjiro Koizumi of the Liberal Democratic Party as the successor to Taku Eto, who resigned as Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries after making remarks such as I have never bought rice.

It is considered to be a de facto dismissal.

And Prime Minister Ishiba instructed Minister Koizumi to take measures to ensure that rice can be supplied to consumers at stable prices in light of the continued rise in rice prices, and to consider selling reserve rice through negotiated contracts.

This is the first time a cabinet minister in the Ishiba Cabinet has resigned, except in cases such as losing an election, and within the government and ruling party, there are growing concerns about the impact on future administration and the upcoming House of Councillors election this summer.

Taking these circumstances into account, the government and the ruling party hope to achieve results in stabilizing rice prices and restore public trust.

Prime Minister Ishiba said, Rice must be priced in the 3,000 yen range per 5 kilograms, and we must achieve that price as soon as possible.

If it doesnt go down, we will have to take responsibility, he said.

On the other hand, Constitutional Democratic Party leader Noda said, Since Mr. Eto resigned amid the uncontrollable surge in rice prices, attention will be focused on whether results can be achieved under the new minister.

The opposition plans to continue pressing the government on its response while monitoring rice price trends, and will also keep pursuing Prime Minister Ishibas responsibility for the appointment.