Japan's new cyber security minister has “never used a computer in my life”

Japan's new cyber security minister Yoshitaka Sakurada has admitted he has never used a computer.

The 68-year-old, who was appointed to his post last month, will be involved in overseeing cyber defence preparations for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Mr Sakurada made the admission in front of a committee of lawmakers, saying: “Since I was 25 years old and independent I have instructed my staff and secretaries. I have never used a computer in my life.”

According to a translation by the Kyodo news agency, he also struggled to answer a follow-up question about whether USB drives were in use at the country's nuclear power stations, causing further concern.

A politician within the opposing Democratic Party said the bold-faced admission was “unbelievable” for “someone who is responsible for cyber security measures”.

Mr Sakurada responded that other officials had the necessary experience and he was confident there would not be a problem.