Philip Brettell from South Wales wrote, recently, that "it was impossible not to notice that the public transport situation in Malta remains as problematic as ever - too little available information for passengers; a road infrastructure clearly groaning under the increasing demands; old buses and abrasive attitudes of some drivers that do not necessarily enhance the overall public transport experience; rudeness and pushing at bus queues... was commonplace".

He added that he would add to the already groaning road congestion by hiring a car, next time he visits the island.

I completely agree with Mr Brettell and, naturally, I would like to apologise to our guest, for the ministers' apathy and mismanagement, lest they lose votes.

I recall that, years ago, a hefty subsidy was handed out by the state to bus owners to replace their unsafe and ridiculous machines with spanking new ones.

Can the minister responsible for transport assure us that the new buses, paid for by us, are all being used and on the road, and where the old junk was scrapped?

May he also explain how he appeased the owners with brand new fishing tackle without teaching them how to fish?

He might also have the courtesy to inform us of the number of disciplinary actions taken over the past years against those rude drivers who obstinately break the law, day in day out.

The police might also let us know of any court cases instituted to check the hazardous fumes belching out of these supposed-to-be "people carriers".

And, although he usually doesn't, I hope the minister would not ignore, brush aside, or pass the buck on this criticism, this time, because of political expediency.