Ex-Vice Defense Minister violated SDF ethical code by frequently playing golf with arms trading company executive

   Former Vice Defense Minister Moriya Takemasa while in office frequently played golf with a former executive of an arms trading company in violation of the Self-Defense Forces ethical code, persons involved disclosed on October 19. If Moriya was still in office at the time of the revelation, he would possibly be disciplined.

   Moriya played golf more than 100 times over nearly 20 years with a former executive of Yamada Corporation that trades in missiles, jet engines, and other military equipment. Moriya often used a golf course operated by an affiliate of Yamada Corp. and was sometimes accompanied by his wife. Subordinates of the former Yamada Corp. executive drove him to and from the golf course.

   The SDF code of conduct established in 2000 prohibits not only SDF personnel but also Defense Ministry officials from receiving money or gifts from interested parties. Golfing or traveling with interested parties are also prohibited even if those officials pay for the outings themselves.

   Moriya promoted the SDF dispatches to Iraq and the upgrading of the former Defense Agency to the ministry level. He retired in August.

- Akahata, October 20, 2007