Updated - Adds details

Mgr Charles Scicluna, who on Saturday becomes the new Auxiliary Bishop of Malta, this morning expressed his concern over the treatment of EU Commissioner-designate Tonio Borg by MEPs.

"He is being required to do things which are not demanded of representatives of bigger countries" Mgr Scicluna said on TVAM.

"He has been praised for his excellent performance in the subjects he may be responsible for, but then questions are being raised about his philosophy of life. Be honest, say that you do not want him simply because he is a Catholic," he added.

"It would be a disaster for Europe if Dr Borg is not approved by a Europe that was built on diversity..." 

"The situation is very saddening. What will they do if the Commissioner-designate is a Muslim? What will they say about his outlook on life?

In a bloc based on human rights, one's religious beliefs should not be prejudicial to one's advancement, Mgr Scicluna said. Religious belief should be an enriching experience, he said.

Furthermore, the Catholic religion had been a source of good in Europe and the EU's founders were Catholic. Even the EU flag was based on religion, Mgr Scicluna said.

He welcomed the fact that Dr Borg's nomination enjoyed cross-party support in Malta and said he should not be hindered in Europe just because he is a Catholic.