Speaker, in 1994 the government adopted and implemented the Domestic Air Transport Policy which would ensure a level playing field in the domestic airline industry of South Africa. Last year, we witnessed the most unfortunate downfall of domestic low-cost airline 1Time. This downfall occurred at the same time that the South African Airways was given yet another lifeline of a whopping R5 billion government guarantee.
All is not lost for 1Time, however. A deal is being structured under Minister Martins that could ensure the salvation of the airline. Thousands of jobs could be saved. The Minister's lack of action in signing off this deal could jeopardise not only the salvation of a South African company, but also result in severe job losses. South Africans deserve a competitive market. Minister Martins must now explain to the country why the deal remains unsigned and, if there is a problem, it must be brought to light to ensure that the problem is resolved. [Applause.]