National Assembly: 19 September 2006  

Madame Speaker,

We in the IFP do not really want to become involved in a debate which has clearly been personalized. The ANC is emotionally upset and is gunning for the throat of Douglas Gibson MP.

We prefer to look at the facts unemotionally.

From what Mr Gibson has explained, the following appears to be his version -

. Having read various newspaper articles on President Mbeki's new house, he went to have a look at the house

. He did not enter the premises.

. He had read that over R20 million is being spent on the house.

. He was concerned that taxpayers' money was possibly being used inappropriately.

. He was exercising a form of Parliamentary oversight.


Madame Speaker,

There is no acceptable evidence to challenge Mr Gibson's version.

In the circumstances the IFP will not support the motion.

Thank you


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr Koos van der Merwe MP: 082 444 4944
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848