If anyone could possibly be in any doubt about the special bond which exists between Malta and the UK this was firmly and forever removed when the UK House of Commons discussed Malta’s crucial role in facilitating the evacuation of British subjects from Libya by allowing the RAF to establish a temporary headquarters on its territory. The whole of Parliament cheered to the rafters as all the MPs united as one to acknowledge and support this typical act of friendship towards Britain.

This gratitude was further cemented by the magnanimous appreciation expressed by the Prime Minister, David Cameron, when he told the assembled MPs: “Not for the first time in our history we should pay tribute to Malta and her people.”

Yet another marvellous chapter in Malta’s illustrious history and her vital and selfless role when answering the call and coming to the aid of people in distress, for which she should rightly be proud of as much as Britain is appreciative.

As the British say, a friend in need is a friend indeed!