The leader of the Dutch delegation of the European People’s Party yesterday called for an EU investigation into Malta’s cash-for-citizenship programme.

Speaking during a meeting of the EPP Bureau in Amsterdam, MEP Wim Van de Camp said the scheme breaches EU principles and is at odds with Schengen rules.

“There is a lack of transparency if the names of those persons buying citizenship are not published,” he said, adding that if Malta needs money, “this is not the way to go about it”.

Maltese MEP David Casa said Malta’s international reputation is falling into disrepute.

“The introduction of this scheme is highly embarrassing for Malta and its citizens,” he said. Mr Casa added that the EU was interpreting the scheme as an abuse of privileges that Malta acquired through its membership and was showing disrespect towards the other member states.

Earlier this week, the European Commission said it would not enter into the debate “as this was an issue of national competence” according to the EU treaties.

Meanwhile, human rights advocacy group Aditus said that without entering into the desirability or otherwise of the scheme, the NGO is concerned it reinforces Malta’s negative message to migrants and asylum seekers.

“By exclusively emphasising financial contributions of migrants, the Government directly informs all these migrants and refugees that Malta is not and will probably never be a place they can call home,” it said.