CAPE TOWN The spillover into the media of political differences between members of Parliament's standing committee on public accounts was undermining trust and the work of the committee, African National Congress (ANC) MP Vincent Smith said yesterday.

The committee discussed its relations with the media, with the ANC members urging a more responsible and sober attitude, although they did not go so far as to propose a ban on discussions with the media.

ANC members felt it was counterproductive for opposition MPs to raise matters in the media about a public hearing before the hearing was held and recommended rather that formal media briefings be held.

ANC MP Bruce Kannemeyer said before the committee's work became politicised over the probe into the arms deal, members had not attacked one another in the media. Doing so had polarised the committee, which was not performing to its full potential at the moment.

The ANC's Neo Masithela said the party was committed to fighting corruption.

Democratic Alliance public accounts spokeswoman Raenette Taljaard said it was not acceptable for relations with the media to be regulated. She said if relations within the committee were good there would be no reason for members to resort to the media.

The committee will hold further discussions on how members perceive its oversight role and the role of chairman Gavin Woods.

Gerhard Koornhof of the United Democratic Movement said the committee decided that ways would be sorted out to clarify the chairman's role particularly in situations which require him to use his discretion and consultation with the committee.

ANC MPs have criticised Woods for what they see as his acting unilaterally. In turn, Woods has decried what he sees as ANC attempts to undermine him and to block the work of the committee where this could lead to a confrontation with the executive.  

With acknowledgment to Linda Ensor and Business Day.