Measures to secure the number of members of the imperial family assume that boys from former imperial families will be over 15 years old

The four parties, the president and vice president of the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors, met to discuss how to secure the number of members of the imperial family. It has been learned that when adopting a male lineage male from a former imperial family to become a member of the imperial family, it is assumed that he or she must be 15 years of age or older. "Quick news" that can be read in a Q&A format and is useful, this time we will explain "discussions on measures to secure the number of imperial family members".

Q: I heard that the President and Vice-Chairman of the House of Representatives had a meeting.

A: Regarding measures to secure the number of members of the Imperial Family, the four members of the House of Representatives, the Representative and Vice-Speaker, are holding discussions to compile a draft ``consensus opinion of the Legislature''. So far, two proposals have been presented that are ``basically reasonable'': (1) female members of the imperial family retain their status as members of the imperial family even after marriage, and (2) male lineage males from former imperial families become members of the imperial family through adoption.

Q: Do male lineage members of the former imperial family have to be over 15 years old?

A: According to the Civil Code, if the child is under the age of 15, a legal representative such as a parent or guardian must consent on the child's behalf. It appears that the four parties believed that the free will of the adopted child should be respected.

Q In case ①, can the husband and children of a married female member of the imperial family also become members of the imperial family?

A: In the supplementary provisions of the proposed amendment to the Imperial House Law, we are considering a proposal to include a clause stating that ``necessary measures'' will be taken if necessary in relation to measures to secure the Imperial Family even after the revision, and then include in the supplementary resolution a provision to take ``appropriate measures in a timely manner'' based on the environment surrounding the Imperial Family and the situation of the Imperial Household.

Q: What will happen in the future?

A No conclusion was reached at the meeting on the 2nd, and it is expected that discussions will continue between the Chairman and Vice Chairman.