Aso, who also doubles as deputy prime minister, reportedly said during a meeting of the National Council on Social Security Reforms: “Heaven forbid if you are forced to live on when you want to die. You cannot sleep well when you think it's all paid by the government. This won't be solved unless you let them hurry up and die,” he said.

Backtrack: Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso speaking at a press conference. Pic/AFP