Controversial package

The opposition-controlled House of Councilors approved a budget bill that excluded a government plan to give the public two trillion yen (22 billion dollars) in a bid to kick start spending.
But the 4.79 trillion yen budget will eventually be enacted as the decision of the more powerful House of Representatives will prevail in line with constitutional provisions.
The lower house passed the extra budget and related bills Jan. 13 with the backing of the ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito party.
The opposition parties are expected to pass the bill to amend the extra budget, removing the two trillion yen allotted for the cash handout plan.
The bill is expected to gain approval from the upper house but face disapproval in the lower house, which the ruling parties control.