Japan’s prime minister has announced a snap election for next month, hoping to capitalise on a surge in public support to push through record spending and defence plans. Sanae Takaichi announced she will dissolve parliament on Jan 23, paving the way for polls on Feb 8. Official campaigning will begin on Jan 27. The election will be the first since Ms Takaichi took office last October. CNA’s Michiyo Ishida reports.