Hon Deputy Speaker and hon members, the UDM acknowledges that South Africans are enduring economic hardship and joblessness. We understand how South Africa's economic growth outlook is moderated by a number of global risks. The debt crisis in Europe and the poor economic performance of industrialised countries cause the economic growth outlook to deteriorate significantly. Bearing these issues in mind, we welcome the Finance Minister's Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement.
We are particularly pleased that the Minister has acknowledged the need to provide more support to rural municipalities. Since its inception, the UDM has consistently called for more resources to be channelled to rural areas to help prop up the collapsing infrastructure in these long-neglected areas.
The billions of rands government has earmarked for investment to improve the lives of South Africans in informal settlements is a step in the right direction. The UDM has long advocated the concept of "government must do more", and it is heartening to hear that our calls have been heeded, albeit under difficult economic circumstances. However, it is concerning to note that infrastructure investment is lagging behind budget allocations. This is one area where government could reinforce infrastructure investment growth to help reduce the bottlenecks in our economy and stimulate private sector investment.
We call on the Minister to walk the tough talk in the fight against wasteful expenditure in all spheres of government. The UDM supports the Bill. Thank you.