Lawmakers in Japan are discussing a draft bill to revise the country's Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. The focus is on how to ensure transparency in recognizing refugee status.

The Japanese government says some foreigners apply for refugee status more than once, capitalizing on the rule that suspends deportation while applications are being processed.

The government proposes to disallow more than two applications, in principle.

Four ruling and opposition parties hope to revise the draft bill. The main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party says Japan's recognition rate is extremely low and fundamental reform of the screening system is necessary.

The party is calling for a third-party institution to ensure transparency of the refugee recognition process.

In response, the ruling parties are proposing a supplementary provision stating that the establishment of a third-party body will be considered.

Their draft also calls for humanitarian measures to prevent children from being deported while their parents are applying for refugee status.

Many CDP members say they cannot accept the draft, as just "considering a third-party" body does not go far enough.

Lawmakers will discuss the draft bill at a Lower House committee meeting on Friday. Officials of the main ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner, Komeito, say they intend to hold a vote at the session.