Members of both Diet chambers will soon begin discussions on possible legislation enabling Emperor Akihito to abdicate despite a range of differing opinions across the party spectrum, according to the speaker of the Lower House.
Representatives of the parties will meet Thursday to exchange opinions on how to proceed with discussions, Tadamori Oshima said Monday after a meeting of parliamentary heads.
"We believe all the parties think it's necessary to draw a conclusion during the ordinary Diet session (that will run through June 18)," the speaker said.