Yes, thank you.
With regard to economic empowerment, the ANC affirmed its commitment to the transformation of our economy and the implementation of BEE and affirmative action policies. In reviewing our transformation in and around BEE, we have come to the conclusion that BEE, as it stands, was a minimalist programme reflective of the constraints posed on the democratic government by the sunset clauses. As we reviewed economic empowerment, we factored in elements which move beyond the narrow definition of equity ownership. It is about the empowerment of the people, leading to ownership, through various programmes like skills development, entrepreneurship and the constitution of various agencies to facilitate funding in support of these initiatives.
The joint committees have considered the strategic plans of both the Department of the National Treasury, including Sars and Statistics SA respectively. We hereby recommend to the House that the Vote under consideration be approved. It is important to note that the DA, in our committee deliberations, indicated that in principle they would support the budget although a formal decision still had to be taken by their caucus. We wish to thank the hon Minister and Finance family for their constructive and purposeful engagement with the committee. We look forward to a constructive but robust relationship moving forward. I thank you. [Applause.]