Parliament yesterday adjourned after 15 minutes as a sign of respect towards President Emeritus Ċensu Tabone who the Leader of the House, Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici, described as “the President who gave the people a lot”.

He informed the House that the state funeral would held on Saturday. Parliament would hold a full-scale commemoration at a later date.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici said Dr Tabone always had a clear mind and vision and was open to new ideas. He kept himself au courant with what was happening.

Dr Tabone was a respected politician who believed in the policy of persuasion. He was a family man and an exemplary head of state.

He always acted properly, was affable and never lost his temper.

He retained his roots that could also be seen in his use of certain words.

Joseph Sammut, on behalf of the opposition, shared the government’s sentiments expressed by Dr Mifsud Bonnici. Acting Speaker Ċensu Galea joined both sides in expressing his condolences.