Hon Speaker, I do not remember timeframes during the discussions, which, as I say, have taken a number of years. I don't remember timeframes. Secondly, regarding what would happen to the current rapid response force when the other force is established, I'm sure this matter will be discussed by the AU. It may look at a number of factors which need to be looked at, and may then determine that this one must indeed cease to exist.
I'm saying this for the following reason. If, for example, you take into account how the standby force is supposed to be resourced - which will be different from this one where countries that are volunteering will take care of what needs to be taken care of - who will take care of those ones? Will it be the AU? Does it have the necessary funds? Or will it be funded by the donors? Those are the matters that will be looked at. If the AU does not have the money and depends on the donors, and the donors are not happy with whatever operation it is, what will they say? These are matters that will be taken into account. Maybe at that time the AU will say that as countries we should budget for the standby force and therefore it will have the resources. The conclusion regarding the current one will then take a different direction. So that will be dependent, I think, on the level and time at which the decision is taken on the standby force as to what happens to the one that then exists. Thank you, hon Speaker.
Direct contact between Gupta family and Cabinet members
9. The Leader of the Opposition (DA) asked the President of the Republic:
Why did the Gupta family have direct contact with members of his Cabinet (details furnished)? NO1699E