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The Office of the ANC Chief Whip notes with regret and disappointment an incident of misconduct involving a Cope Member of Parliament, Mr Dirk Benjamin Feldman, during an official parliamentary trip to India.

Mr. Feldman, who was part of the parliamentary delegation to India, was briefly detained by that country's security and subsequently sent back home by parliament's presiding officers after indulging in drunken escapades aboard the South African Airways flight to India.

Such conduct is unacceptable for a member of parliament, regardless of the party she or he belongs to, as it undermines the integrity of the institution and the respect our people have in it. It is even worse when it happens during an official overseas trip, as it places this Parliament and the country in a negative light both internationally and at home. We therefore commend the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Max Sisulu, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Mr Mninwa Mahlangu, for acting swiftly by removing Mr Feldman from the delegation and sending him back to South Africa. This minimised the negative impact this unfortunate incident might have had on the trip and the entire business of the delegation in that country.

Given the seriousness of this misconduct, a proper investigation must be conducted to ensure that appropriate action is taken. Members of Parliament are at all times expected to carry themselves in an honourable manner and refrain from conduct that will bring the institution into disrepute.