The government said Friday its position on using state funds to hold a key Shinto ritual during next year's Imperial succession remains unchanged, despite the fact that the younger son of Emperor Akihito has raised a question about financing the religious event.

"We are aware that his highness was just stating his own idea. We have no plan to make any response," Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasutoshi Nishimura told a news conference.

Ahead of his 53rd birthday on Friday, Prince Akishino raised doubts about the constitutionality of the Daijosai (Great Food Offering Ceremony), because the Constitution bans the state from engaging in religious activities.