In response to a DPP lawmaker's proposal that over half a million Taiwanese men should be compensated for an extra year of military service during the period between 1967 and 1976, the Ministry of Defense said yesterday that not only does the required amount of compensation, about 194 billion NT dollars, far exceed the government's financial capability, but the legal basis of the demand itself is shaky.

After reviewing a 194 billion NT proposal aimed at providing the Army's First Special Forces with compensation for an additional year served between 1967 and 1976, the Ministry of National Defense held a press conference to clarify the government's decision.

National Defense Minister Kao Hua-chu and MND officials in charge of the ministry's legal, comptroller, and personnel departments explained the legal grounds for the conscription of an additional year, but at the same time recognized the servicemen's contributions to the nation.

A member of the First Special Forces was also on hand, and expressed support for the MND.

Legislator Trong Chai, who spearheaded the proposal, says that he can't accept the MND's decision and that he will continue promoting his agenda.

Chai also said that he would be leading a protest in front of the Presidential Office on March 13th.