Hon Chairperson, in considering and supporting the revised fiscal framework 2014, the ANC has had to draw from its 102 years of navigating through the harsher storms and challenging epochs of each generation and we are, therefore, not detracted by an aspirant government.
We are a government and leader of society, and we are aware that we need to fix the dual-economy landscape amidst constraints of global market forces, extremely difficult domestic market conditions and high unemployment rates coupled with a declining economy.
We also feel strongly that there is a need effectively and soberly to manage credit and liquidity risks, inflation and exchange risks and trade and investment risks, whilst not losing sight of our 2030 vision as well articulated in the National Development Plan, NDP.
Amidst all these divergent tests, building social cohesion remains important to us.
Inevitably these trying times require trade-offs. It is within this context that the ANC supports the revised fiscal framework. The ANC is therefore satisfied that the Minister of Finance and his team are on the correct path to take the country forward. They have sufficiently comprehended and factored in the trying economic times in which this fiscal framework is being considered.
This is indeed consistent with being a leader of society. In backing this fiscal framework and in appreciating the centrality of fiscal prudence, good governance and effective oversight, the ANC hereby gives its unwavering support with the following strong message to all departments and state organs: Curb spending on nonessential items; root out corruption at every level; identify nonstrategic state-owned enterprises, SOEs, and consider their disposal; increase efficiency, productivity and competitiveness at every level of state. Also, tax-increase options must be considered carefully so as not to impact negatively on our already contracting economic trajectory. I thank you.
Question put.
Motion agreed to (Democratic Alliance and Economic Freedom Fighters dissenting).
Report accordingly adopted.