Madam Deputy Speaker, Cosatu's unnecessary attacks in recent weeks on the hon Minister Trevor Manuel - that is, before he bought his new BMW - smell of political undertones. It is clear that Cosatu cannot accept that their representatives in government have lost the debate on the National Planning Commission and they are now starting to play the man.
Cosatu and its allies must understand that the development of macroeconomic policy is at a very sensitive stage and if we divert from the policies that were cast by the previous government, under the leadership of President Mandela and President Mbeki, South Africa and the region will pay a high price.
We in Cope urge the government to remain consistent in the application of tested mixed-economy principles. Only then will South Africa be prepared to rebuild and grow the economy after the recession. [Applause.]