PN group summoned as Gonzi-Debono meeting is inconclusive

The PN parliamentary group meets again this afternoon, hours before the opening of a no-confidence debate that will be the highlight of a crucial week for the government.

The group meeting will be held 24-hours after Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi had a meeting with rebel MP Franco Debono at the Auberge de Castille yesterday afternoon.

The meeting, which lasted some 40 minutes, was reportedly 'inconclusive'.

Earlier yesterday, Dr Gonzi said to applause at a political activity that the solution to the current crisis must be unconditional. He said he was not seeking temporary solutions for the crisis but wanted clarifications for the rest of the legislature, which has 14 months to run.  He also insisted that the solution must allow the government to carry on with its programme.

Yesterday's meeting between Dr Gonzi and Dr Debono was their first contact in more than two weeks.

Dr Debono last week said he is seeking the resignation of the prime minister or all those responsible for the current situation. He said the situation was caused by government inaction on various reform which, he insists, the country needs urgently. The MP has presented two private member's motions for reform to the justice sector and the enactment of legislation on party funding.

Today's meeting of the parliamentary group will discuss developments regarding Dr Debono and how the no-confidence motion debate will proceed. Sittings will be held today, tomorrow and on Wednesday evening with the vote on Thursday at noon.