Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Tuesday pledged to conclude soon discussions on so-called policy activity funds, often criticized for lack of transparency.

At a news conference in Brazil's Rio de Janeiro, Ishiba said he has instructed the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which he heads, to hold "discussions, including the option of abolishing" the practice in which political parties disburse funds to their member lawmakers.

"We'll reach a conclusion as soon as possible in order to secure public trust," he added.