Key Facts
• July 30: Governor Tatsuya Maruyama held a regular press conference.
• Gasoline tax abolition proposed by eight opposition parties gains traction.
• Shimane Prefecture and municipalities face a revenue loss of nearly 31 billion yen.
• Maruyama warns against excessive tax cuts, stating, “It could lead to a tax-free state.”
• Governor urges opposition parties to act responsibly and with restraint.
• Analyzes Upper House election results, noting support for parties valuing citizens’ concerns.
• Suggests Prime Minister should justify continuation if staying in office.
• Praises former Prime Minister Ishiba for addressing regional population decline.
• Calls for proactive measures to tackle population issues.
Summary
Shimane Governor Tatsuya Maruyama voiced concerns during a press conference about the potential abolition of the gasoline tax’s provisional rate, a proposal gaining momentum among eight opposition parties. He highlighted the significant impact on local government revenues, estimating a loss of nearly 31 billion yen for Shimane Prefecture and its municipalities. Maruyama criticized the trend of competing tax cuts, warning it could lead to an unsustainable “tax-free state.” He urged opposition parties to act responsibly and ensure accountability for their policies. Reflecting on the recent Upper House election, Maruyama noted voter support for parties prioritizing citizens’ concerns and emphasized the need for the Prime Minister to justify continued leadership. He also commended former Prime Minister Ishiba for addressing regional population decline and called for more proactive efforts to tackle this issue.
