Oil Scandal Grips Japan

The Ministry of International Trade and Industry has begun an inquiry into the activities of senior officials who regulate the oil industry. Miti wants to clarify press suggestions that 100 officials were wined and dined by the infamous Osaka oil wholesaler Junichi Izui.

Izui, a friend of top politicians, sumo wrestlers and baseball players, is at the centre of a bitter lawsuit between companies belonging to two of Japan's most prestigious conglomerates