The department should intensify its efforts to ensure that the mining industry plays its part in the transformation of the industry. The legislation should be strengthened and government should be empowered to take punitive measures if necessary against those that are not complying. I am trying to rush.
In conclusion, for the ANC-led government the objective is clear and has been set. Beneficiation, ownership of the means of production, skills development and employment equity are among the issues that need to be dealt with in the transformation of the mining industry. How this is to be done is what the ANC has opened up for discussion. The government seeks to achieve a competitive industry. We in the ANC support the budget of the department. We further emphasise that it should strengthen its mandate of ensuring that the industry conforms to the transformation agenda of the ANC- led government. Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]