Concern about the unbalanced representation of the Maltese business community on committees within the European Parliament has been expressed by the Malta Business Bureau during a meeting with Opposition leader Joseph Muscat.

The MBB expressed its disappointment at the lack of representation by Maltese MEPs in the Tourism and Transport Committee (TRAN) and the Industry, Research and Energy Committee (ITRE). Both, MBB president George Micallef said, were of particular relevance to Malta.

“Regrettably, despite the fact that the MBB clearly highlighted the importance of having a Maltese MEP on these two strategic committees, the Maltese business community is not represented on either of them. The Maltese business community’s interests should be better represented in through a more balanced representation within the relevant EP committees,” he said.

As the European Office of the Malta Chamber and the MHRA, the MBB represents business and industry, as well the tourism sector.

Dr Muscat noted the position expressed by the MBB but highlighted the fact that Maltese MEPs will be sitting on the internal market and environment committees, amongst others. These discussed and approved legislation that had a direct bearing on Maltese and European businesses.