TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) addressed on Thursday (Jan. 8) the unprecedented delay in the review of the central government's budget for fiscal year 115. Cho emphasized that this is the first time in Taiwan's constitutional history that the budget review has not been completed within the designated timeframe.
Cho noted that the Executive Yuan (行政院), Taiwan's cabinet, submitted the budget to the Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's legislature, on Aug. 29 last year, as required by Article 46 of the Budget Act (預算法), but it has yet to be assigned for review over four months later. He warned that the failure to pass the budget could impact both central and local government operations.
The national defense budget faces the most significant impact, with a shortfall of NT$75.2 billion. Recent incidents, such as a fighter jet crash, underscore the need for funds to support combat equipment and F-16 training programs. Additionally, Cho highlighted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (外交部) is experiencing a budget deficit of NT$11.1 billion. He expressed concern that, despite recent public approval of the ministry's work, the lack of legislative support leaves the government anxious.
Cho urged the Legislative Yuan to promptly pass the budget, providing warmth to the nation during a challenging time. He called for rational deliberation and committed to having ministry heads thoroughly explain and defend the budget during legislative reviews. Cho hopes for legislative support for various plans to enable the government to maximize its efforts in caring for and protecting the people.