I never doubted backbench loyalty - PM

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi says he has taken note of his backbenchers' concerns and criticism and mapped out an efficient way forward.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, the first since his decision to twin backbenchers with ministers, Dr Gonzi denies that any of his MPs are seeking personal glory and rejects claims that his government was unstable.

While urging critics to judge him through his actions and not words, he says: "I think the whole group, even when they expressed their concerns publicly, were doing so in the public's interest."

He insists that the small Cabinet formula has worked, saying his decision to appoint parliamentary assistants would guarantee more efficiency, while ensuring ministries remained in touch with the grassroots.

The Prime Minister also discusses the Valletta project and pledges to deliver it by the end of this legislature, despite the controversy.

"This project will be signed by Renzo Piano and nobody else," he says.

Watch excerpts of his interview with Herman Grech above. Read the entire interview in today's edition of The Sunday Times.