Question NW950 to the Minister of Finance
05 June 2017 - NW950
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether Prof. Chris Malikane has been one of his advisors on the Government's fiscal and economic policy; if not, what role does he play in the National Treasury; if so, what topics did he advise him on; (2) what is his position with regard to Prof. Malikane's discussion document of eight pages that recommends amongst others that banks, insurance companies, mines and other so-called monopoly industries should be expropriated; (3) how was this accordance with his public undertaking to do everything possible in order to ensure that the country is upgraded from junk status; (4) what was the purpose of appointing an advisor whose advice will ensure that the country retains its junk status?
Reply:
(1-2) The role of Prof. Chris Malikane is to advise Minister of Finance. The eight pages discussion documents, is not government position but was for his academic purposes.
(3) The government is doing all it can to improve the economic prospects of the country by ensuring that a conducive environment is created for public and private sector to invest in the economy and eventually create jobs.
(4) As government, we are clear and consistent in terms of Economic Policy and how to address current challenges. A lot of work is being done at the level of both local and abroad to avoid any further downgrade. We are working towards improving our current grading.