Hon Speaker, we wish to congratulate the Department of Trade and Industry on the recent launch of the National Consumer Commission, NCC. The people of South Africa and indeed all consumers will benefit directly from the work of this commission.
The National Consumer Commission is another essential part of the plan in the development of legislation and structures designed to protect consumer's rights through the Consumer Protection Act of 2008.
The interface of the work of the NCC with the National Credit Act and other legislation soon to be enacted, such as the Companies Amendment Bill, can only strengthen our decision to ensure that the public is protected effectively. The Consumer Protection Act is changing the socioeconomic environment in our developmental state to ensure fair, competitive and responsible markets.
The National Consumer Commission will provide services that will handle consumers' complaints within the next five weeks. The commission has already begun to educate and empower the public with regard to their consumer rights and responsibilities. The commissioner, Ms Mamodupi Mohlala, has the ANC's full backing in the implementation of the work of the National Consumer Commission. Thank you. [Applause.]