The Culture Ministry in Taiwan is investigating reports that Chinese state media personnel have infiltrated Taiwanese political talk shows to monitor content. This revelation, initially reported by print media, has caused public concern. Culture Minister Li Yuan (李遠) addressed the issue during a legislative committee meeting, stating that an investigation is currently being conducted.
Deputy Culture Minister Sue Wang (王時思) additionally explains that the ministry is conducting an administrative investigation following established procedures. The investigation focuses on two parties: the United Daily News, and Xinhua News Agency. As two Xinhua reporters are still in Taiwan, the ministry has arranged interviews with them.
Wang assures that a public statement regarding the investigation's findings would be made within a week. She says that prior to this incident, Xinhua News Agency’s reporters based in Taiwan had not violated any regulations. However, she mentioned that in the past, one Chinese media outlet stationed in Taiwan had breached reporting rules.
Minister Li emphasizes that this incident raises national security concerns. While the Culture Ministry is responsible for issuing press credentials and can revoke them if regulations are violated, it lacks judicial authority. The ministry's role is limited to conducting interviews to gather information within the scope of the law.