(On the indictment without arrest of Former Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Yoshikawa and on the intention to amend the Political Funds Control Law)

First and foremost, it is very regrettable that Former Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Yoshikawa has been indicted without arrest. Regarding the Political Funds Control Law, the matter is closely related to the freedom of political activity. Therefore, I believe, each political party and group must first discuss this issue.

(On the reason not to field a candidate for the Hokkaido 2nd District By-election)
With regards to the Hokkaido 2nd District, we considered that we must prioritize straightening ourselves up and making efforts to restore trust from the constituents, by taking this event seriously and reflecting on the matter deeply.

(On the comments pointing out that the decision was made in order to minimize damages to the administration)
As I said earlier, that is because we take this event seriously and intend to prioritize restoring the trust from the constituents based on our deep reflection.

 (On the comment made by Former Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Yoshikawa)
The trial is coming up, so I believe I should refrain from making any comment.