Tokyo assemblyman Akihiro Suzuki has apologized for heckling a female colleague with sexist taunts that drew international condemnation.

Opposition member Ayaka Shiomura was urging Tokyo officials to support women in their struggles involving pregnancy and childrearing when she was suddenly interrupted.

"You should get married first!" a voiced called, followed by a different voice asking, "Can't you have babies?"

Suzuki admitted to being one of the hecklers and apologized on Monday.

But the lawmaker from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party insisted he was not responsible for the second comment on having babies.

He also said he did not intend to hurt Shiomura's feelings.

Suzuki said he would not step down, and would, quote, "continue making efforts.”