Japan’s minister resigns over probe of sharing gifts to voters

Japan’s new trade minister, Isshu Sugawara has resigned, after being accused of violating election law that bans politicians from sending donations to voters in their home constituency.

Media reports said Isshu Sugawara gave his Tokyo constituents expensive melons, oranges, roe and royal jelly.

He is also said to have offered “condolence money” of 20,000 Japanese yen ($185; £145) to the family of a supporter.

The allegations first surfaced in weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun, which said that Mr Sugawara’s secretary had offered about 20,000 yen to the family of a constituent who had passed away.

READ ALSO Patients with high blood pressure urged to take pills at night to cut death risk

It is customary in Japan to give money as a condolence to grieving families – what is known as “incense money”.

The magazine also printed lists of gifts that had been sent by his office, including cod roe and oranges, as well as the thank you letters he allegedly received from the recipients.

Mr Sugawara told reporters on Friday that he was still confirming whether he broke the election law, but had decided to step down, according to the Nikkei Asian Review.

“I don’t want my problems to slow down parliament deliberations,” Mr Sugawara said.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said: “I bear responsibility in having appointed him. I deeply apologise to the Japanese people.”