Before I adjourn the House, I just want to deal with the point of order that was raised by hon member Shilowa on 24 June.
On 24 June, the hon member Shilowa raised a point of order regarding remarks made by the Minister of Higher Education and Training during the debate on the Budget Vote of the Presidency.
The member took offence to remarks made by the Minister with regard to Cope, which he contended were directed at him. Although I had ruled, at the time, that most of the perceived offensive or unbecoming references were of a general nature, or made with reference to a party and not out of order, Mr Shilowa requested that the records be looked at.
Having now studied the unrevised Hansard, I wish to rule as follows: The remarks by the Minister were an expression of a political point of view and a matter of debate, and therefore not out of order. [Interjections.] Order, hon members!
While I still maintain my previous ruling on this matter, I would like to remind members that it is the duty of the Chair to determine whether words used are offensive or disorderly. The Chair's judgment depends on the nature of the words and the context in which they are used. It will, for instance, not be in order to use offensive or unbecoming words against a political party with the intention of reflecting upon members of the House. I thank you. [Applause.]