MPs call for more debate on Europe

Two Maltese MPs from opposite sides of the political divide have called upon their colleagues to engage in more debates on Europe in the Maltese Parliament.

Nationalist MP Michael Asciak and Labour's spokesman on the EU George Vella spoke to The Times during a two-day joint parliamentary meeting earlier this week by the European Parliament and representatives of the 25 national parliaments. The main point of discussion was the way forward on the stalled EU Constitution.

Dr Vella gave the Constitution itself as an example: "The debate is of utmost importance and it is imperative that the Maltese Parliament also gives its views on such an issue. This debate should not be tied to a vote but would be an opportunity for our MPs to give their opinions and offer suggestions.

"I am sorry to note that our Parliament is still silent on such matters. The debate is non-existent," Dr Vella said.

Dr Asciak said MPs had the right to come out with ideas. "This is after all the essence of democracy."

There was broad consensus at the meeting on the need to achieve a new constitutional settlement for the Union before 2009.

European Parliament president Josep Borell said there was widespread agreement on the need to preserve the major achievements of the constitutional treaty.

He said such meetings were very useful in preparing the groundwork so that the forthcoming German presidency would seek a way out of the constitutional deadlock.