MLP members to choose next leader - new proposal

The Labour Party's members will select the next leader, should one of the wide-ranging reforms proposed by the party be approved.

The executive is proposing the creation of a National Congress, composed of members who would have been in the party for at least five consecutive years. The congress would be responsible for the appointment of the party leader and the approval of the electoral programme, according to the proposals to be discussed during an extraordinary general conference tomorrow.

A motion proposed by Labour MP Marlene Pullicino last April had suggested that party members select the new leader but it was shot down and Joseph Muscat went on to win the battle last June.

The executive is proposing the change of the official name of the party to Partit Laburista (PL) from Partit tal-Haddiema - Malta Labour Party.

The party emblem would also be amended. Though the historic burning torch would be retained, the emblem would be updated to reflect the statute and current times, according to the party.

The Vigilance and Discipline Board together the Labour Brigade would be dissolved and replaced by a Social Democratic Foundation known 'IDEAT'.

The proposals also include measures to double the number of youngsters who are party delegates. It has also been proposed that party delegates receive mandatory education to keep them abreast of the latest political thinking.

Dr Muscat's proposal to lower the voting age at national level would be implemented within the party - it has been proposed that the age threshold for party members be lowered to 16.

The party said these proposals were formulated from ideas aired by the various party structures as well as over 500 suggestions from the public.

Following tomorrow's EGM, the party said the proposed amendments would be discussed in workshops held during the coming week.

The conference will meet again on Friday and Sunday.