Report questioning Japan PM's parliament attendance stokes debate

TOKYO - Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's presence at Diet committee sessions is in the spotlight after a think tank recently argued she should not be required to attend, just as her newly appointed Diet affairs chief appears poised to push for change.

The developments have alarmed opposition lawmakers, who have warned against shortening Diet deliberations or reducing the prime minister's appearances before committees where they can question her and scrutinize the government.