Emperor Naruhito said on Thursday that he hopes for a solution on securing imperial family members that gains the understanding of the people. He spoke at a press conference at the Imperial Palace ahead of visits to the Netherlands and Belgium.
Emperor Naruhito described the fundamental principle of the imperial family as sharing the joys and sorrows of the people. He added that he hopes discussions on securing the number of imperial family members will gain the understanding of the people.
Grand Steward of the Imperial Household Agency Buichiro Kuroda reported to the emperor that lawmakers reached a consensus on Wednesday to revise the law. The proposals include allowing female members to retain imperial status after marrying commoners and permitting adoptions of men from 11 former branch families.
The government plans to begin revising the Imperial House Law promptly and aims to pass the bill in the current Diet session. Kuroda also reported to the emperor's younger brother, Crown Prince Fumihito.