TPP Demands Immediate Report on Toxic Oil Scandal; Han Kuo-yu Defends Cho Jung-tai: Should He Skip Disaster Response for Legislature?

In response to the carcinogen scandal involving Chung Lien Oil, Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu convened a cross-party consultation today (9th). The three major parties discussed inviting Premier Cho Jung-tai to deliver a special report to the legislature. Notably, the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) strongly insisted that Cho appear tomorrow. However, Han Kuo-yu pointed out that the Executive Yuan must mobilize resources for Typhoon Bavi disaster prevention, stating, "In the face of a major natural disaster, he cannot shirk responsibility. Please put yourselves in his shoes." Ultimately, the special report was scheduled for the 14th.

TPP caucus convener Chen Ching-lung stated that the Executive Yuan's controversial "20% threshold" policy—requiring mandatory recalls only for processed foods containing more than 20% contaminated oil, while allowing self-disclosure for lower levels—was a key decision made under Cho Jung-tai's leadership. If the legislative session proceeds normally tomorrow, "the TPP insists he come tomorrow," emphasizing that food safety cannot wait.

Han Kuo-yu responded that it would not be known until 8 p.m. tonight whether the legislature would adjourn tomorrow, and that the Executive Yuan must also prepare for full mobilization tonight to respond to Typhoon Bavi. "Suddenly demanding the Executive Yuan to appear at the legislature tomorrow is too abrupt," he said.

Han suggested that the Executive Yuan deliver the special report next Tuesday afternoon, allowing Cho Jung-tai to focus entirely on disaster prevention from tonight through tomorrow. "Typhoons also bring immense pressure, and the public is very anxious," he added.

Chen Ching-lung maintained that the Executive Yuan is a team effort, and that disaster response could be handled by the Fire Agency and relevant bodies. "Is Premier Cho expected to dig trenches like DPP Deputy Secretary-General Ho Po-wen? The urgency stems from public concern over food safety. The TPP is giving the Premier the best opportunity to quickly explain to the nation. He should seize it," Chen argued.

Han countered that too many variables remain, including the 8 p.m. announcement tonight. In closing the meeting, he emphasized that Cho Jung-tai must enter the disaster response center tonight, or at the latest by tomorrow. "He cannot evade responsibility. As the highest-ranking official, how can he skip disaster command to report at the legislature? Please empathize!"

Han then ruled that Premier Cho Jung-tai, accompanied by relevant agencies, will appear before the legislature on the afternoon of July 14 for a special report and questioning. The KMT and DPP caucuses will each nominate seven questioners, and the TPP two, with each allowed 15 minutes for questioning.

More exclusive reports from Wind Media: - Executive Yuan announces indefinite suspension of Chung Lien operations; unveils five measures on carcinogenic oil, including support for group litigation and lenient returns - KMT claims Deputy Minister Shih Chou-liang 'confirmed Cho Jung-tai concealed carcinogenic oil'; Executive Yuan releases full timeline, calling accusations 'clearly taken out of context'