Chair, the Human Sciences Research Council was established in this country in 1968. In 2003, government commissioned a review of the Human Sciences Research Council. As a result of that review, it was then agreed that this council be re-established.
The Bill before us is actually re-establishing the Human Sciences Research Council. It provides for the objectives and functions of the council, which are mainly research and publication of such research in human science matters. It also provides for the appointment of the board by the Minister.
As a committee of the NCOP, we do propose a few amendments, especially on the appointment of the board. When the Bill came from the National Assembly, it was actually saying that the board be established by the Minister "in consultation with the National Assembly". Our view is that this must be established after consultation, not "in consulation with the National Assembly" and with Parliament.
The other amendment that we are proposing is that when the Minister has to replace, for instance, a member of the board, the Minister must inform the National Assembly of the replacement of such a member. However, we are saying that the Minister must inform Parliament rather than the National Assembly. Those are the amendments that we are proposing as a committee and we want to urge this House to support this Bill. Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Debate concluded. Bill, subject to proposed amendments, agreed to in accordance with section 75 of the Constitution.