DA welcomes decision to summon Minister Davies over corporate visa applications

30 July 2014

The DA welcomes the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry, Ms Joanmariae Fubbs' decision to accept the DA's request to summon the Minster of Trade and Industry, Rob Davies, to Parliament so as to account for the reasons behind the limitations placed on corporate visa applications in relation to various business undertakings.

This comes after the Ministry of Home Affairs, following consultations with the Department of Trade and Industry, sought to revoke corporate visa applications relating to an undertaking to participate in the hospitality industry, exotic entertainment, fast - food outlets and franchises and the cosmetic and beauty industry. 

The Minister failed to respond to the DA's correspondence by late Friday last week and has not provided reasons for the decision on any other platform since.

This is yet another measure that will make it difficult to invest in South Africa and therefore limit growth and job creation.

Minister Davies must explain what criteria was used to determine the "undesirability" of these business undertakings and also provide answers as to  - 

What study from the Department was done to determine the economic impact of their decision on these industries; 

A full briefing on the Regulatory Impact Assessment undertaken; and

What engagement, if any, was conducted with role-players within these industries. 

In the midst of a slowing economy, we cannot afford to add further red tape to growth.  Parliament must thus exercise it oversight powers and demand a full explanation from the Minister as to why he insists on jeopardising jobs.  

The DA will continue to keep the executive to account and fight to job opportunities for all South Africans.

Statement issued by Dean Macpherson MP, DA Shadow Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, July 30 2014

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