Chairperson, hon members, earlier in the debate I indicated that I will get back to this meeting with a ruling. This was in relation to a point of order raised by the hon Ellis to the effect that the word "nonsense" had not been ruled unparliamentary in the past.
I just need to indicate that when a presiding officer rules on a matter, he or she takes into account the tone and the context in which the remark is made. At the time when the hon Groenewald made the remark, it was my view that the remark was meant to offend and I therefore asked him to withdraw. He obliged.
It is correct that the word itself has never been considered offensive, and it is therefore not unparliamentary. However, I wish to thank hon Groenewald for acceding to my request at the time. I thank you. [Applause.]