The Liberal Democratic Party appears to be against new legislation that would ban discrimination against foreigners, while some opposition parties back such laws, according to a survey released Thursday by a civic group.
The LDP and the Liberal Party believe antidiscrimination laws for foreigners are unnecessary or would be difficult to enforce, but the Democratic Party of Japan and the Social Democratic Party are considering submitting bills banning discrimination based on race or nationality, according to the survey conducted by Issho Kikaku, a nonprofit organization formed by foreigners living in Japan.
The poll asked political parties where they stand on the issue of foreigners being turned away at private-sector businesses such as public baths, bars and restaurants.
It was prompted by recent incidents in which several privately operated baths in Otaru, Hokkaido, turned away foreigners, Issho Kikaku said.