This component of the Framework reflects the social and equity rationale for policy action. As expressed by the government, its “initial concern is always focussed on the health and safety of the people, and ensuring that their immediate welfare needs are met” (MAF, 2006). The rationale for policy action in this case is largely driven by considerations of economic efficiency, in particular the necessity for a quick recovery of the rural economy and the minimisation of spill-over effects into the rest of the economy.