BEFORE WE PROCEED TO QUESTIONS, I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO WELCOME THE DEPUTY PRESIDENT. [APPLAUSE.] AS HAS BEEN INDICATED, AFTER THE QUESTION SESSION TO THE DEPUTY PRESIDENT, WE WILL HAVE MEMBER STATEMENTS. HOWEVER, IT'S ALSO QUITE IMPORTANT, HON

members, that when we direct questions to the Deputy President, we should note the following. The time for reply by the Deputy President to a question is five minutes; only four supplementary questions are allowed per question; a member who has asked the initial question will be the first to be afforded an opportunity to ask a supplementary question; the time for asking a supplementary question is two minutes; and the time for reply to a supplementary question is four minutes. Whatever supplementary question is asked must emanate from the initial question.

The first question is Question 7 asked by hon A B Goyiya on the critical asset maintenance strategies, and is directed to the Deputy President. Yes, what's the point of order?

Xitsonga:

Ndzi lava ku kombela leswaku loko Xandla xa Holobye va hlamula swivutiso va yima eka phodiyamu leswaku hi ta kota ku va vona kahle.

English:

No, we'll do it just now. [Interjections.] As indicated, the first question directed to the Deputy President is from hon Goyiya on critical asset maintenance

strategies. We now ask the Deputy President to proceed to the podium. [Applause.]

HON MEMBERS: Malibongwe!

Hon Labuschagne?

Chair, on a point of order please: I don't have a problem with the Deputy President or any other President or Minister standing at the podium. I just want you or any person sitting in the Chair to please look through the Minister or the Deputy President, or around him, to just recognise this part of the House for questions as well. Thank you.

Hon members, we always try to conduct this process in an orderly manner and in a way that ensures that everyone gets an opportunity to ask a question. However, there is a maximum of four supplementary questions, so please raise your hands as early as possible so that you are noted. However, you can't raise your hand now before there's been a response. [Interjections.] Yes, but as soon as possible. Thank you very much.