The ANC supports Budget Vote 32 without any conditions. [Interjections.] We support this Budget Vote because it provides a possibility for a turnaround strategy within the Department of Mineral Resources.
Regarding the issues raised by the hon member, hon Adv Schmidt, firstly, he is aware that next week the portfolio committee will be addressed by the State Diamond Trader and the regulator thereof on matters pertaining to the strategy of the State Diamond Trader. Secondly, and most importantly, he is aware that the Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources is dealing with an elaborate strategy on the diamond industry as a whole.
Thirdly, the issues of relationship between the chairperson and the President should not play any role when we look at matters pertaining to the institutions that report to both the department and the Ministry. [Interjections.] Therefore on Tuesday you will have an opportunity to get clarity.
Lastly, let us say that the Kimberley Process is very clear. If there were any problems, we would have been notified at this stage. We do not have the information you have at our disposal. Therefore, we will be grateful if next week, on Tuesday, you will submit that information to the portfolio committee when we deal with the matter of the State Diamond Trader. The ANC supports Budget Vote No 32. [Applause.]
Vote agreed to (Democratic Alliance and Independent Democrats dissenting).
Vote 33 - Rural Development and Land Reform - put. Declarations of vote: