The Commission had taken a decision in principle not to extend its membership beyond its current number. Furthermore, the "observer status" was no longer available, but the Commission would gladly make an exception for South Africa. This exception would be motivated, not only by the Commission's long history of exchanges with South Africa, but also in consideration of the value the South African constitutional experience holds for many other countries, especially those on the African continent. It was felt that the richness and uniqueness of the South African constitutional experience might add to the unique pool of knowledge and expertise gathered in the Venice Commission. The membership fee for South Africa in the Venice Commission would be limited to Euro 21 000 per annum, subject to possible limited annual increases across the board. The South African government would be responsible for identifying an extraordinary South African Constitutional Law expert, who would be required to attend the Venice Commission meetings in Venice four times a year, at South Africa's expense. Such expert, though, would be appointed by the South African government, and would be fully independent from it. Once South Africa acquired membership of the Venice Commission, it would be able to request the Venice Commission to express advisory opinions and provide other assistance in respect of legislation or constitutional reforms, which the South African government might intend adopting, or other relevant legal matters.