Tokyo Gov. Yoichi Masuzoe on Wednesday apologized again for lavish use of official funds, saying he will shortly reveal the results of a third-party probe into his spending. He was addressing members of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly.

Masuzoe said he will refrain from traveling first class and using top-end hotel suites during business trips, revelations that have sparked taxpayer ire.

He said he had reflected deeply on the matter.

"I do take this criticism seriously and sincerely and will do my best to correct my conduct," he said.

Masuzoe said last week he had appointed two former prosecutors who have no connection to his office as independent auditors. The lawyers will scrutinize his expense reports and provide advice on ethical issues raised.

At a news conference on Friday, Masuzoe declined to disclose what the probe has found but said he hoped to reveal results and answer questions at the plenary session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly that started Wednesday.

At that session on Wednesday he said he would "disclose and explain" the results sometime by the end of the session, which winds up on June 15.

Masuzoe said he remains committed to making Tokyo a place that all residents can feel proud of.

"I would like to apologize from the bottom of my heart for causing such huge trouble, to Tokyo citizens and to members of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly," he said.

At the meeting, Masuzoe said he will keep a closer eye on costs incurred by city officials accompanying him on trips.

The allegations include the purchase of pajamas, and artwork which he booked as reference materials.

He added that he has no one to blame but himself, citing a "lack of ethics."He has faced calls to resign, but on Wednesday said he remains committed to the job.

"I am aware I cannot regain in one day the trust I have lost, but I will work hard to gain it back step by step."