A website aimed at rousing support for divorce has attracted some 700 people to sign a petition.

Divorceinmalta.com was set up to provide information about why divorce should be legalised here, its founder, Jonathon Shaw said.

“On a personal level I believe the state should eventually legalise divorce. This website is a good tool to disseminate such information and to measure the direct response through an online petition.”

The website highlights the need for the state to introduce divorce legislation and allow people who are legally separated to re-marry after the civil dissolution of their marriage.

“It is obvious that different people will have different views on the matter but I don’t see why people should be against the introduction of divorce if it does not affect them personally. The fact that someone is pro-divorce does not mean they are unhappy in their relationship or that they will have to get a divorce.”

Asked if a referendum should be held about divorce, Mr Shaw said this would not be a democratic way to tackle the issue because the matter affected a minority.

“The eventual legislation of divorce means that this will not be imposed on anyone... A referendum is held when there is a national issue which affects the majority and one is directly or indirectly affected by the outcome. Should we then have a referendum on whether petards should be banned? They are a nuisance, generate noise pollution and, whether you like it or not, are literally imposed on us!”

Mr Shaw believes the divorce debate should be targeted at legislators in Parliament and the government, both of which have the ultimate responsibility for the state and the well-being of Maltese society.

“Neither party should fall into the trap of politicising divorce but should work together to make a positive change by allowing for much-needed freedom of choice on this issue.”