Deputy Speaker, in view of the report released under the auspices of the National Academy of Scientists, stating that there is as yet no convincing research to indicate that nutrition affects the course of Aids or offers an alternative to treatment with antiretrovirals, the IFP calls for a new phase in the government's approach to HIV.
It should include the following elements: one, unequivocal clarity from the Minister about the fact that HIV causes Aids and that antiretrovirals are the best route to treat the condition; two, there should be increased commitment of government finances to the SA Institute for Medical Research, SAIMR, the Medicines Control Council, MCC and, in partnership with universities, to do nutritional research and to find out the impact of foods, vitamins, minerals, nutriceuticals and traditional medicines on HIV.
Thirdly, there should be urgent publication of regulations dealing with traditional medicines and complementary alternative health products; and fourthly, there should be measures introduced to ensure that the public has access to research results from research that has been undertaken either in South Africa or in partnership with overseas universities, on herbs such as Hoodia and Sutherlandia or food such as garlic and the African potato. Thank you.