Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

1. Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga

(Abridged)

2. Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Changing topics, Yoichi Masuzoe, Governor of Tokyo, disclosed results from a review of his use of political funds yesterday and acknowledged that some spending was inappropriate. You have often stated as a general view that it is important for politicians to carry through with their responsibility to give a full explanation. Do you think yesterday’s survey results were sufficient to resolve the doubts of Tokyo residents?   

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: While I would like to refrain from commenting on this situation as the Government, I believe it is most important for the Governor himself to provide a suitable explanation as a politician.

REPORTER: While the Governor himself rejected the notion of resigning, do you think the various issues involved this time do not require action along these lines?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I would like to refrain from commenting to this level from the standpoint of the Government.

REPORTER: Switching topics, I have a question about the US presidential election. Hillary Clinton has secured enough delegates to receive the Democratic Party’s nomination in the primary race for the presidential election. She has taken a cautious stance toward the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement, and I think she has a reasonable chance of becoming the next president. What does the Japanese Government think about this prospect? 

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I would like to refrain from commenting on specific developments as the Government because the US election process is still in the primary stage. However, we will continue to closely monitor the situation because the US President has significant influence in relations with Japan and affects the entire world. This is the Government’s view.