Regarding the fact that members of the Liberal Democratic Party's non-faction group close to Prime Minister Suga, including Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Sakai, held a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office, Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato said, "We should strictly refrain from acts that could cause criticism." He made it clear that he had paid attention to Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Sakai.
Thirteen members of the Liberal Democratic Party's non-faction group close to Prime Minister Suga, including Deputy Secretary Sakai, held a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office on the 1st, divided into four groups and had lunch, and then the duties of Deputy Secretary Sakai. In the room, they exchanged opinions on measures against the new coronavirus.
At a press conference after the Cabinet Secretary, Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato said, "It is normal to exchange opinions with various people, including members of the Diet, at the official residence, and I do not think there are any particular problems, but on a regular basis. We have been criticized for holding meetings, especially for members of the Diet, at the official residence. "
After that, he said, "I said that I should strictly refrain from acts that could cause such criticism, and there was a talk that I would like to refrain from doing this in the future." ..
In addition, although the reporters were divided into four groups, they were asked if they should refrain from meeting with 13 people, but they said, "Eat all together, then put on a mask and hold a meeting. I don't think that's the case. The important thing is how to reduce the risk of infection. "
Deputy Secretary General Sakai "I want to refrain from doing so in the future."
At the House of Representatives Cabinet Committee, Deputy Secretary Sakai said, "We have received various criticisms about holding a gathering of specific members at the Prime Minister's Office, and we would like to refrain from doing so in the future. I would like to reflect on what was lacking and take measures in the future. "
Komeito Secretary-General Ishii "You should refrain from political affairs in the government office
At a press conference, Komeito Secretary-General Ishii said, "Not limited to the Prime Minister's Office, government offices are basically places where public affairs are carried out, and it is a major premise that they are separated from political affairs such as so-called faction meetings. Should refrain from holding meetings. "