Aso may call polls as ratings improve

TOKYO: A bounce in recent polls for Japan's unpopular Prime Minister Taro Aso following his tough response to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) recent rocket launch has sparked speculation he may soon call key elections for parliament.

Some ruling lawmakers are calling for elections as early as next month.

Aso's approval ratings fell below 10 percent in February. Since taking office last September, he has been diminished by a series of political gaffes, a perception of weak leadership and a deepening economic recession.