Hon Chairperson, substantial work has been done in identifying the line functions and responsibilities of the Department of Economic Development. To clarify the Ministry's focus and mandate, I shall draw on two policy statements made by the President which remain the position of government.
In motivating the new Cabinet structure, President Zuma stated on 10 May this year that "Cabinet has been reorganised to achieve better alignment between the structure, our electoral mandate and the developmental challenges that need to receive immediate attention from government."
In line with this, the President announced that a new Department of Economic Development had been established to focus on economic policy- making. And, during the Presidency Vote on 24 June this year, the President stated:
Some people are wondering why we have both the Department of Trade and Industry and that of Economic Development. Trade matters will require a strong focus to have a direct impact on industrial organisation and output. The Economic Development portfolio will have a strong domestic focus and will address, amongst others, matters of macro and micro economic development planning.
The establishment of the National Planning Commission does not replace the need for planning in departments and spheres and agencies of government. The way in which the national planning process has been structured takes cognisance of the fact that departments, spheres and relevant state entities would have the requisite strategic planning capacity and responsibility.
The role of the Minister in the Presidency responsible for the National Planning Commission would be to integrate the work of the NPC into government and Cabinet. Additionally, the Minister will also facilitate the input of the various departments and spheres with regard to the development of the national strategic plan.
As members should be aware, the Green Paper on National Strategic Planning was tabled in this House on 4 September this year. As President Zuma indicated, the affected Ministries are working together to align their work and respective responsibilities. I thank you.