Opposition political parties on Wednesday questioned South Africa's capacity to host the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

Several stadiums were badly behind schedule and questions remained around transport and accommodation, Democratic Alliance MP Donald Lee told MPs during the Department of Sport and Recreation's budget vote.

"There seems to be no-one in charge, no clear line of authority or responsibility," he said.

"It is high time this government started acting like it was in control."

Lee proposed the appointment of a dedicated cabinet minister to oversee the process.

"The 2010 World Cup is now just under four years away," he said. "We have some 1 460 days to ensure that we get everything right."

The Inkatha Freedom Party's Bonginkosi Dhlamini agreed there was reason for concern.

Information must be forthcoming on new transport systems, new stadiums and other infrastructure requirements for hosting a tournament of this scale.

"We should be vigilant that time does not run out before we are fully prepared, leaving South Africa embarrassed and ridiculed."

Deputy sport and recreation minister Gert Oosthuizen underscored the Cup's potential contribution to South Africa's coveted six percent economic growth rate by 2014, especially through tourism.