Japan government spokesman: UFOs exist

Yes, UFOs do exist, Japan's top government spokesman said yesterday.

The comment by Nobutaka Machimura drew laughter from reporters at his regular briefing on government policy.

Earlier the cabinet issued a statement saying it was unaware of cases where an unidentified flying object had been discovered, responding to an opposition lawmaker who demanded an investigation "given incessant reports of UFO sightings".

"The government can only offer a stereotyped response," Machimura, the chief cabinet secretary, told reporters.

"Personally, I definitely believe they exist," he said, apparently tongue in cheek.

"I shouldn't talk any more. But I would welcome such questions every day."