Japan's PM Takaichi says makeup and chores mean she works three hours more than male predecessors

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has sparked a national debate about gender roles after telling parliament she spends three to four more hours a day than her male predecessors because of makeup, bathing and household chores. Her remarks, made on Wednesday, drew fierce criticism from Japanese women who said her comments reflected outdated views on gender equality. Takaichi said it took time for her own aides to realise she needed extra preparation time before appearing on camera.

Japanese women spend nearly five hours daily on household chores, compared to around 40 minutes for the average man, according to government figures.