The private sector would play a critical role in terms of generating growth, creating wealth, and most importantly, creating jobs, a representative from the Democratic Alliance (DA) said on Wednesday, during a panel discussion with business on election mandates.

Party representative Ian Davidson said that the role of the State was also important, but that its importance lay in creating an environment that was endevour to both domestic and foreign investment in the country.

This investment would be attracted by way of clear and competitive tax policies, Davidson said.

“We believe the State should be supportive of the private sector, and not dictate to it.”

However, Davidson added that the party’s monetary policy also recognised the need for regulation, and that adequate regulation was the cornerstone of a fight against cartels and price fixing.

“Clearly, the role of the State is to ensure a stable macroeconomic environment. As far as fiscal policy is concerned, we are looking at cyclical fiscal policies, and need to ensure that there is a competitive environment.”

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