Hon members, I have been informed that the Whippery have agreed that there will be no notices of motion or motions without notice. Before we proceed, I have to read out the rulings. [Interjections.]
Deputy Chairperson, on a point of order: I have realised that we are starting 10 minutes late and I have not heard any explanation from the Chair. Is there a reason why this House is not adhering to stipulated times any longer?
With due respect, hon Watson, the delay was because some of the Ministers had not arrived. [Interjections.] Hon Watson, I am still talking. Can you give me a chance to answer? Is that accepted? Thank you. It was not of my making. We had to have those Ministers here to answer the questions.
With all due respect to the Deputy Chair, that was not a reason for the House to start late. The House should start at the stipulated time. If the Ministers are not here then we should carry on with those who are. I happened to see that one of the Ministers was early.
Again, hon Watson, I have made a ruling and everybody has to accept it. It is not because they were not prepared to come in. If I can give you an example, Minister Shiceka is not well, but today he has taken it upon himself to be available to answer questions. May we proceed?
Chairperson, I was not criticising, but I just said we did not get the reason. You have only given the reason now after my point of order.
Hon members, I am saying this for the final time. I am not going to be drawn into unnecessary debates, and that ends whatever anybody wants to say from now on. I thank you.