TOKYO - Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has decided to cut the consumption tax on food and beverages for two years starting next April, but the measure she described as "temporary" could become a vote-winning tool in future elections and remain in place beyond the intended period.

The Cabinet on Wednesday approved cutting the consumption tax on food and beverages to 1 percent from the current 8 percent to help households cope with inflation, following the ruling parties' campaign pledge in the House of Representatives election they won decisively.