... 67 million people is only 4% of China's population. [Laughter.] There's nothing funny about that, it is a fact. But for us it is obviously a very tall order.
I've spoken to my colleague the Minister of Science and Technology, hon Minister Naledi Pandor, and we both think that South Africa has arrived at a situation where we have no option but to start developing our own vaccine capacity, not only for H1N1, but generally and for other diseases. [Applause.] I just want to disclose that the statement from Dr Wilmot is also about that. It's very important, that's why I want to follow it up.
A special word of gratitude to the hon Speaker of the National Assembly, hon M V Sisulu, for acceding to our request to address the House this afternoon. Thank you very much, hon Speaker. We take advantage of your kind advice to keep on informing this House about this matter because it is a very important matter. I wish to thank you and all South Africans in anticipation of your active involvement in communicating and helping to mitigate the effects of this disease. Thank you. [Applause.]