President Cyril Ramaphosa says the work of the Parliament will continue despite the devastating fire that broke out in the historic complex yesterday.

The fire gutted the 3rd floor of the Old Assembly Building, including office space and the gymnasium. The fire moved from the Old Assembly to the National Assembly, damaging the ceiling.

It took fire crews at least 5 minutes to respond to the fire after receiving a call shortly after 6am on Sunday.

Structural engineers from Parliament and forensic investigators are expected to inspect the site.

A man linked to a fire is due to appear in the Cape Town Magistrates Court on Tuesday.