Tokyo’s embattled governor has apologised in the face of public anger over alleged inappropriate spending.

Yōichi Masuzoe has received intense questioning from the media over lavish outlays on overseas business trips, online purchases and accommodation at high-end hotels and spas.

“I apologise to the people of Tokyo and the metropolitan assembly from the bottom of my heart,” Masuzoe told the local legislature. He cited having “caused huge trouble over the cost of foreign trips” as well as questions over alleged misuse of political funds.

He was elected in February 2014 to replace Naoki Inose, who had resigned over a personal financial scandal.

Masuzoe pledged an administration free of money scandals. But trouble started in April with reports that he was using his official car to be driven to and from a cottage south of Tokyo. He denied wrongdoing and, while it reportedly did not violate rules on vehicle use, many questioned whether the practice was appropriate.

It subsequently emerged that official trips to London and Paris with 20 metropolitan officials last year cost taxpayers a total of ¥50m (£320,000), with Masuzoe flying first class and staying in luxury suites.

He vowed yesterday to curb spending on foreign trips, while reiterating that he has asked a lawyer to examine how his political funds were used.