Finalize proposals for tax and social security system reform before the end of FY 2011, including raising the consumption tax rate to 17 percent and basicpensionbenefits of 70, 000 yen per month for all persons 65 years and older.
"I made it clear this would apply to all claimants in work and out of work, and would cover all benefits other than disability payments and the basic state pension, " he told me.