Japan PM announces $300B stimulus package

TOKYO -- Japan's Prime Minister Taro Aso has announced a 30 trillion yen ($300 billion) stimulus package and credits to bolster the country's economy.

Aso said Thursday the package would include loans and credits for small and medium-sized businesses, a reduction in highway tolls and 2 trillion yen ($20 billion) fixed-sum benefits to households.

Aso said he was also considering raising consumption taxes.

He did not announce a date for snap parliamentary elections, which the opposition has called for in the near future. Such elections must be held by next September.