Parliament's ethics committee is to investigate allegations that Defence Minister Mosiuoa Lekota has failed to declare interests in several businesses.

The ethics committee would have to investigate claims that the minister held interests in petrol and wine businesses, yet did not declare these in parliament's register of members' interests, leading members of the committee, who asked not to be named, said.

Parliament's registrar of members' interests, Fazela Mohamed, who has an independent position, has initiated investigations into claims of impropriety by MPs that have become public knowledge.

Fears have been raised that the chairman of the ethics committee, Luwellyn Landers (ANC) would be reluctant to initiate an investigation into Lekota, who is not only a minister but national chairman of the ANC. Landers has refused to comment on the Lekota matter.

It would be the first time that the ethics committee investigated a cabinet minister.

Mohamed has in the past pointed out to the committee that, in terms of the ethics code, she is duty-bound to investigate claims of undeclared interests, including those allegations that are made in the press.

In terms of the ethics code, MPs must declare gifts worth more than R350 and any directorships or shares they hold in companies.

Lekota has, according to a Mail & Guardian report, admitted to failing to disclose 33% shares in Prestprops 1169 and a 5% share in Prestprops 1209 (trading as BZL Petroleum) acquired in 2001.

He was appointed defence minister in 1999.

Lekota's stakes in the businesses concerned raise conflict-of-interest questions since he is in a position to use his influence and has access to privileged information as defence minister to advance his business interests.

With acknowledgements to Andre Koopman, Sapa and the Cape Times.