Japan to declare state of emergency, launch stimulus package www.latimes.com

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that he would declare a state of emergency for Tokyo and six other prefectures as early as Tuesday to bolster measures to fight the coronavirus outbreak, but that there would be no hard lockdowns.
Abe also told reporters Monday that his government would launch a 108 trillion yen ($1 trillion) stimulus package to help counter the economic impact of the pandemic, including cash payouts to households in need and financial support to protect businesses and jobs.
Abe said experts on a government-commissioned task force urged him to prepare to declare a state of emergency, with the COVID-19 outbreak rapidly expanding in major cities, including Tokyo, overburdening hospitals and medical staff.
He said the state of emergency would cover Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka and four other hard-hit prefectures, and be in effect for about a month.
AdvertisementThe prime minister said he would hold a news conference Tuesday to explain the state of emergency.