Labour Party leader Alfred Sant returned to political activity today, telling the concluding session of the party’s annual general conference that Labour possessed of the best talent and enthusiasm for change.

Dr Sant was given a rousing welcome by hundreds of party supporters when he arrived at MLP headquarters, with many having to follow his speech outside on a big screen.

Dr Sant promised that a future Labour government would not look at faces but at people’s skills and merit.

Labour, he said, would remedy discrimination and injustices and follow a zero tolerance policy on corruption.

He also promised to cut red tape and boost the economy.

Dr Sant said he had worried that his recent illness would slow the MLP ahead of the general elections. He was glad to say, however, that momentum had continued to build up.

He said the people were yearning for change, with many prominent Nationalists sharing that view.

He claimed that the government had not been able to source EU funding on time and economic growth in Malta was slower than in other countries. A Labour government would reverse this trend.

He also promised a social commitment and said Malta would also seek a "fair deal" on the issue of illegal immigration.