Japan prince: Royal duties need review as members decline

Japanese Emperor Naruhito's younger brother said Friday that the royal family can perform only a limited number of duties because its membership is declining sharply.

Crown Prince Fumihito, better known as Prince Akishino, is now next in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne after his father, Akihito, abdicated at the end of April and his brother Naruhito succeeded him in May.

The family faces declining numbers, with Akihito and his wife now retired and their three granddaughters expected to lose royal status when they marry commoners under the current Imperial House Law.

"Those who are building international goodwill are decreasing, but in a way there is nothing we can do," the crown prince said. "I think those among us who are able can only do so much."
"We can engage in broader activities if there are more people in the next generation, but if you look at the current situation, I believe it is necessary to examine what to do."