Hon House Chairperson, the ANC declares publicly that we support for this Bill. Therefore, any attempt by the smaller-nyana party to think that they can influence the ANC will not be successful because we have policy conferences from which we get our directors. As
the Comrades Charel De Beer has referred to the 1%, we believe that this could come to a point where the financial viability of the AG will be at risk which could easily spill over to a threat to the constitutional independence of the AG. The ANC as a political party with the experience which has demonstrated its commitment to rooting out corruption in South Africa as championed the processing of the Public Audit Fees Bill, the direct charge in this instance will mean that the payment to the AG will not form part of the normal appropriation of parts to the National Treasury. The payment will be made directly from the National Revenue Fund to the Auditor-General by the office of the Accountant-General that is responsible for managing the National Revenue Funds.
The ANC supports a direct charge against instead of increasing the appropriation of excess audit fees in National Treasury's Vote because the annual amount varies every year and in current fiscal position of the country will require the National Treasury to cut from other items on its own budget and impact negatively on the National Treasury's ability to perform its own functions. A direct charge will mean that revenue in the National Revenue Fund contributes directly to those auditees unable to pay the excess audit fee. It limits disputes between the AG and the National Treasury and creates more certainty for the
Auditor-General of what they expected revenue should be. Such certainty is vital for accurate budgeting and prioritisation objectives.
Furthermore, the anticipated revenue is critical for the financial independence due to the crucial role of the AG in ensuring constitutional democracy through this Bill. The ANC is convinced to ensure that this situation ... [Inaudible.] ... financially independent. Thank you, Chairperson. [Applause.] [Time expired.]
Question put: That the Bill be agreed to.
Bill accordingly agreed to, in accordance with section 75 of the Constitution.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 75 of the Constitution.