A controversial new version of a draft bill to loosen restrictions for construction on agricultural land is set to move into the Legislative Yuan today, although both DPP and New Party lawmakers are aiming to shoot down the bill before it gets off the ground.
However, KMT caucus members said that confrontation was unnecessary because an existing draft bill that is similar in format could be amended instead.
"Since the cabinet's version of the bill -- drawn up by Council of Agriculture Chairman Peng Tso-kwei (彭作奎) -- was already given to the Legislative Yuan for review on Nov. 26, then according to the current rules of procedure if we collect more than five signatures then we can revise the bill," said KMT caucus leader Tseng Yung-chuan (曾永權).
Therefore, Tseng said, "The legislature's own amended version of the Agriculture Development Act should be ratified rather smoothly.''
It is widely believed that Tseng's remarks show the KMT will make every effort to ensure the passage of their version of the bill.
The KMT is calling for a loosening of restrictions for new house building on agricultural land.
The Cabinet's version demands that new houses built on agricultural land be collective projects.
Meanwhile, Premier Vincent Siew (蕭萬長) yesterday still appeared to be reluctant to say whether he stood by his original policy stance.
"During the past two years, there were lots of precedents, in which the legislature revised the cabinet's proposals. I believe both the legislative and executive branches should respect each other.
"With this consideration, the cabinet should reinforce communication with legislators," Siew said.
In spite of Peng Tso-kwei's constant requests to resign from his post, Siew said yesterday he wished the former Council of Agriculture chairman would reconsider his resignation.
"I hope Peng can stay in the cabinet with us, so we can work hand in hand to defend our policy position,'' Siew said.
Currently, Peng has asked for a break of three-and-a-half days to consider his options and has moved down to Taichung to escape increased media attention.
Peng told journalists he would prefer a return to the more easygoing life of a professor.
In regard to a policy stance on the use of agricultural land, both the DPP's Chen Shui-bian (
"The core of the problem lies in some corporations [in the name of the farmer] doing their best to manipulate agricultural prices, while at the same time sacrificing the real need of the peasants,'' Soong said.
Chen said it was impossible to forbid farm house construction on private land.
The most urgent task, he said was to take this opportunity to review agricultural policies thoroughly.
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