Question 249 addressed to the Minister of Basic Education has been asked by the hon K R J Meshoe. I am told that the Deputy Minister of Basic Education will reply to the question on behalf of the Minister.
Speaker, on a point of order: May we ask why the Minister of Basic Education is not here ... [Interjections.]
Order, hon members.
... given the fact that question time is on the programme and has been for several months? The Minister was quite aware of when she would be expected to come and answer oral questions in the House. So, can we please have an explanation as to why she is not here? Thank you.
Thank you very much. Hon Enver Surty, you have the right to respond on behalf of the Minister. Proceed.
Action taken against departmental officials as a result of destruction or discarding of textbooks 249. Rev K R J Meshoe (ACDP) asked the Minister of Basic Education:
Whether any officials of her department have been (a) charged or (b) dismissed because of textbooks that were destroyed or thrown away in provinces such as (i) Limpopo, (ii) the Eastern Cape and (iii) North West; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (aa) how many and (bb) what action has been taken against those responsible?