The hunters' federation has expressed support for Labour MEP Joseph Cuschieri, who is seeking re-election in Saturday’s European Parliament elections.

The FKNK said it had had a meeting with Mr Cuschieri and appreciated his attention, efforts and interest in the 'traditional socio-cultural Maltese traditions of hunting and trapping'.

Mr Cuschieri promised he would continue to do the same should he be re-elected.

Mr Cuschieri also agreed that should he be re-elected, he would consult FKNK’s specialist services in any matter that may regard biodiversity, rural activities, sustainable hunting and trapping, environment conservation, the migration of birds, rearing and captive-breeding and the re-introduction of birds into the wild, the federation said.

It said it had also noted Mr Cuschieri’s 'humanitarian' offer to donate half of his salary to charity should he be re-elected.

The FKNK had previously endorsed Cyrus Engerer, who has since pulled out of the race after he was given a two-year suspended jail term for distributing porn.

In the past it backed Labour MEP John Attard Montalto, who is not seeking re-election. Dr Attard Montalto is an honorary life president of the federation.