Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the third meeting of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy, and the first joint meeting of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy and the Industrial Competitiveness Council of 2014, at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, discussion took place on "unleashing the vitality of Japan" and "strategic challenge (promoting active participation by women in the workforce)."

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said in his address,

"In the spring wage offensive, due to earnest discussions between employers and employees, we are beginning to see wage increases on a scale not seen in recent years. I strongly hope that this wage increase trend will take hold in other enterprises, including small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small-scale enterprises, and for irregular employees.
Today, we held a joint meeting of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy and the Industrial Competitiveness Council as a first-time effort. We discussed the issue of promoting active participation by women, who are the greatest resource for increasing the growth potential of Japan. 
In light of today's discussion, I would like to ask that, under the coordination of Minister Amari and Minister Mori, relevant ministers work together to give shape to measures based on the following policy.
Minister Mori, I would like to ask you to collect various ideas and examine how the measures for addressing the declining birthrate can be put into action, including how targets should be set for stopping the population decline.
Steady progress has been made in the enhancement of childcare programs for preschool children. The next challenge we must overcome is the so-called 'first grade barrier.' I would like to ask Minister Shimomura and Minister Tamura to collaborate in reviewing various options, including the integrated operation of the relevant measures of your two ministries and thoroughly making use of school buildings, and in establishing a plan for expanding childcare programs for school-age children; among other initiatives.  
Minister Aso and Minister Tamura, I would like to ask you to review the existing taxation and social security system that keeps women from entering the workforce, and explore a system that would be impartial to work style.  
Furthermore, I would like to ask relevant ministers to examine a wide range of measures for promoting the appointment of women in officer, executive, and managerial positions."