The Portfolio Committee on Public Works today adopted the Expropriation Bill noting the objection of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the United Democratic Movement (UDM). The Committee also noted the abstention of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).

During the deliberations and consideration of the Expropriation Bill, the Committee noted the minority views expressed by the various political parties represented in the Committee. The UDM and the DA expressed displeasure with the definition of property in the Bill, among other objections. The IFP raised questions related to whether potential profits to be earned from expropriated property would remain due to the owners even after expropriation has taken place. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) felt that the Committee had to work out a formula according to which compensation for expropriation should be calculated, and that in such a formula, the history of land acquisition should feature more prominently than other factors.

The Committee has compiled a report which includes the minority views that were expressed during the consideration and adoption of the Bill. The Committee Report was adopted today and is scheduled for tabling before the National Assembly.

Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works, Mr Ben Martins