Union decides not to expel Andy after uproar over VCDs

The Entertainment Union (演藝工會) yesterday decided not to expel actor Lin Fu-chin (林富進) -- better known under his stage name, Andy (安迪) -- for his remarks and participation in the Special Report VCDs, the local media reported yesterday.

"The union respects each and every member's right to work, and will not easily expel its members. It decided not to proceed with Andy's expulsion," said actor Wang Chueh (王玨), a union representative.

Wang yesterday that, although they all have different political views and enjoy freedom of speech, union members should be cautious about what they do and say.

At a press conference held in Taipei yesterday, Wang said that the union never threatened to expel Andy, and that it had decided to hold a meeting to discuss the matter after several members repeatedly complained about Andy's actions.

Wang that a union member can only be expelled when two-thirds of the members vote against him or her.

In response to some union members' criticism, Andy announced on Monday that he would soon withdraw from the union, which he believed is controlled by pro-blue camp entertainers. After last night's meeting, Andy changed his mind about withdrawing from the union.

Taiwan Solidarity Union law-makers on Monday questioned the political stance of the Entertainment Union and said the union has long been controlled by pan-blue force.