According to Yomiuri and Nikkei, Prime Minister Kishida offered an apology during a live appearance on a TV show last night over LDP Vice President Aso’s remark during a recent election campaign speech to the effect that global warming has revitalized agriculture in Hokkaido. Aso was quoted as saying on Sunday: “The rice grown in Hokkaido now tastes better thanks to a 2-degree rise in the average temperature.” The premier reportedly said: “The comment was inappropriate. I’m sorry.”