In the end, the strategic planning workshop was little more than a state-sponsored weekend away. Now, we know that ANC members of the Defence committees work very hard to prevent the effective scrutiny and oversight of the Defence Force. We hope that the next time they feel the need to get away and catch the sea breeze at a luxury coastal hotel they will do so at their own expense.
I wish also to place on record that the report tabled on 18 October 2012 is not the report adopted by the Joint Standing Committee on Defence. The recommendation, which includes revising the rules governing closed meetings, was not part of the draft report adopted by the Joint Standing Committee on Defence. I raised the matter with the chairperson, but, of course, I received no response.
In conclusion, Madam Deputy Speaker, if the presiding officers are looking to award a prize for the most dysfunctional parliamentary committee, they need to look no further than the Joint Standing Committee on Defence, which is monumentally dysfunctional. Thank you. [Applause.]