Japanese trade and industry minister quits

Japanese Trade and Industry Minister Yuko Obuchi has resigned amid claims of the misuse of political funds, in a major blow for PM Shinzo Abe, the BBC reported.

Yuko Obuchi is alleged to have used funds from her political support groups and other donations on make-up and other items unconnected to politics.

She handed Mr Abe a letter of resignation during a 30-minute meeting.

Correspondents say it is a setback to Mr Abe, who wants to bring more women into the top levels of government.

Ms Obuchi, 40, was one of five women appointed by Mr Abe in his last cabinet reshuffle last month and tipped by some as a future prime minister.

But last week came news that her staff had spent tens of thousands of dollars of campaign funds shopping for designer goods, and tens of thousands more on taking constituents on trips to Tokyo.

At a televised press conference on Monday, Ms Obuchi bowed in apology and said she was resigning because "we cannot let economic policy and energy policy stagnate... because of my problems."

"I take seriously the impact I have caused," she said. She also apologised for being unable to contribute to key goals set by Mr Abe, including economic recovery and "a society where women shine."