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This paper discusses the merits and demerits of public works programmes in general as well as in the specific context of South Africa. Insofar as the latter is concerned the paper recommends basic guidelines that may be regarded as prerequisites for the implementation of such a programme in this country. With regard to the proposed guidelines, the South African Government's 1985 unemployment relief package is examined critically. In conclusion, the paper favours the introduction of a well‐conceived and adequately scaled programme of public works as a powerful means of combating unemployment and alleviating widespread poverty in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]