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UDP floor leader Kim Hyo-seuk |
By Kim Sue-young
Staff Reporter
Political parties Tuesday continued to clash over the resumption of U.S. beef imports amid mounting public opposition.
The governing Grand National Party (GNP) suggested creating a government-civil organization to clear up safety concerns while the main opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) insisted on renegotiating the deal.
UDP floor leader Kim Hyo-seuk said in a speech at the National Assembly that his party will do its utmost to renegotiate the beef deal.
``Our party does not oppose beef imports. What we are worried about is citizens' health and people who will see losses from the deal.''
Kim slammed the government's plans to import all beef cuts including those from cattle aged 30 months and older, claiming that the Lee Myung-bak administration was risking people's lives.
The two countries agreed that Korea will resume beef imports from the U.S. before summit talks between President Lee and U.S. President George W. Bush at Camp David April 18-19.
The floor leader continued that his party will make related-ministers and government negotiators take full responsibility for what he called a ``shocking'' agreement.
The UDP will also seek to enact a special law to nullify the deal and to empower the National Assembly to review important agreements if they are related to life and health, he added.
Kim promised to clear up suspicions and doubts people have during a public hearing today.
GNP Chairman Kang Jae-sup proposed launching an organization consisting of lawmakers, government officials, experts, farmers and members of civic groups.
He said that the team, once organized, will be able to examine U.S. beef safety and the government's study on follow-up measures.
Kang also stressed that there should be room for further negotiation if the nation is at a disadvantage when compared to deals made by neighboring countries.
But he made it clear that his party will not discuss the UDP's special law, saying it goes against international practice.
GNP floor leader Ahn Sang-soo said his party should organize a joint team with the government and Cheong Wa Dae to present measures which can remove public concern over the beef.
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