Regarding the first question of basic infrastructure, yes, we agree that it is important, but I would also like to highlight the importance of economic infrastructure. We have to lay the foundation for long-term growth as much as we deal with the immediate and urgent challenges of social delivery. So, the investment that government is making in energy and transport infrastructure is absolutely vital for balanced economic development, and for addressing the challenges of poverty.
In relation to the question of trade policy and distress sectors, the framework agreement sets out a policy direction. It is up to companies and trade unions to use the provisions of the law to apply for the necessary relief. There have been applications for relief which have gone to the International Trade Administration Commission. It has applied itself to the matter and made recommendations to the Minister of Trade and Industry who decides on these matters. It's in the public domain that, in fact, parties in the clothing and textile sector, including employers and trade unions, have made applications, and these matters are receiving the necessary attention.
Minister's intentions regarding migration of PBMR into Eskom, and facilitation of nuclear partnership and nuclear energy programme for Eskom
112. Ms M P Mentor (ANC) asked the Minister of Public Enterprises:
(1) Whether she intends migrating the pebble bed modular reactor (PBMR) into Eskom as the main nuclear energy generator; if not, why not; if so,
(2) whether her department will consider facilitating a nuclear partnership and a nuclear energy programme for Eskom within the country and abroad; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NO1448E