Koizumi said the proposal would be in line with the findings of a high-level panel, which has recommended allowing women to head the world's oldest hereditary monarchy.

The Imperial family has not produced a male heir since the 1960s and public opinion is strongly in favor of changing the 1947 Imperial Household Law to allow Crown Prince Naruhito's 4-year-old daughter, Aiko, to become a reigning empress. Aiko is his only child.

Under the law, only males who have emperors on their father's side can succeed to the throne. The last woman to take the crown was Gosakuramachi, who reigned from 1762 to 1770. Only seven other women have had the honor.

The Japan Times Weekly: Jan. 28, 2006
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