National Assembly votes to cut own powers

Patrick Huang (黃澎孝), convener of the People First Party caucus -- which is opposed to what it called "hasty" reforms, warned that the new system to appoint National Assembly deputies by proportional representation ran against democratic principles. Huang said he would not rule out filing an application with the Council of Grand Justices for a constitutional interpretation. In addition, another amendment is intended to give priority to government budgets for social welfare spending and protect the benefits of retired servicemen. Also, grand justices will no longer enjoy lifetime privileges.