(Update) LDP's Tsuruho under Fire for Noto Quake Gaffe

   Tokyo, July 9 (Jiji Press)--Yosuke Tsuruho, a House of Councillors lawmaker from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has come under fire for his gaffe about a powerful earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in central Japan last year.
   During a campaign speech in the western city of Wakayama on Tuesday, Tsuruho said, "It was lucky that the earthquake occurred in Noto."
   The remark came as the chairman of the Upper House Budget Committee appeared to be expressing hopes that the quake would facilitate lifestyles in which people live in both urban and rural areas. The government is promoting such lifestyles as a way to revitalize rural areas facing population decline.
   Tsuruho withdrew the remark and apologized later Tuesday.
   At a press conference in Wakayama on Wednesday, Tsuruho reiterated his apology and said, "I lacked consideration for the disaster-hit areas." He denied any plans to leave the LDP or resign as lawmaker.

(2025/07/09-21:46)