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Wu Shu-chen, accused of embezzlement and forgery of documents involving more than 14.8 million New Taiwan dollars (about 448,500 US dollars), applied for leave on health grounds, according to Taipei local media.

Wu feinted during the first session of her high-profile trial in mid-December last year. She was hospitalized and subsequently missed the following two hearings on Dec. 22 and Dec. 29.

The prosecution and defense on Friday argued over whether Wu's hospital files should be presented in court and whether Chen Shui-bian's office should be ordered to reveal key materials involved in the graft scandal.

The court ruled the next trial will be held on Jan. 19.