Abes Approval Rating Rises to 47%: NHK

The transcript discusses the slight rise in support for Prime Minister Abbas's cabinet despite recent GDP numbers. It highlights the impact of delaying a tax hike and the public's opposition to it. Corporate leaders express dissatisfaction with the economic state, citing the April sales tax hike's larger-than-expected impact. Historical examples of tax hikes leading to political downfalls are mentioned, emphasizing the risks involved. The current political strategy focuses on addressing the budget deficit and public debt, with plans to achieve a fiscal surplus by 2020.

What was the percentage increase in support for Prime Minister Abbas's cabinet according to the NHK survey?

• 1%

• 2%

• 4%

• 3%

What percentage of voters were against the implementation of the tax hike?

• 70%

• 60%

• 50%

• 80%

What was the reaction of corporate leaders to the sales tax hike?

• They were satisfied with the economic growth.

• They believed the impact was smaller than expected.

• They were unhappy with the larger than expected impact.

• They supported further tax hikes.

What did the Finance Minister claim about the state of the economy?

• The economy is improving with more jobs created.

• The economy is stagnant.

• The economy is declining rapidly.

• The economy is in a recession.

What happened to Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda after he pushed through a tax hike in 2012?

• His party won the election.

• His approval rating increased.

• He was re-elected with a higher majority.

• His approval rating plunged and his party lost the election.