In enforcing section 77 of the Constitution, the Money Bills Amendment Procedures and Related Matters Act, No. 9 of 2009 was enacted. This budget reform empowers Parliament to amend the government budget and therefore plays a greater role in ensuring that the most urgent needs of South Africans are addressed. It provides Parliament with necessary instruments to oversee government actions and monitor its fiscal discipline. While this reform is widely welcomed, the Standing Committee on Appropriations (the Committee) is mindful that this legislation will be phased in over the years. The Committee's concern and focus is on the establishment of the Parliamentary Budget Office that will provide more support to enable the Committees on Finance and Appropriations to fulfil their legislative responsibilities.