I refer to the article by Paul Radmilli on the new paving at Valletta entrance as part of the Piano plan.

I agree with most of his comments. Some, indeed, blame the persistent blemishing of the pavement on the light colouring of the stone used for the purpose. It may, however, be that the original stones for paving used in the time of the Knights were also shades of white. I’ve seen similar material used at the medieval city of Dubrovnik in Croatia and the results are very impressive.

What I find obnoxious is the throwing of used chewing gum on the pavement by irresponsiblepeople. Within hours it hardens into a solid thick black deposit. For this reason, in 1992, the Singapore government banned the general importation and sale of chewing gum.

To the credit of the authorities here, chewing gum removal equipment is being used to deal with this pernicious problem. The results are not very encouraging as a greyish stain still remains on the surface. Perhaps the only quick and definite solution to the problem is to adopt the Singapore strategy: ban its importation and sale altogether.

While on the subject, I hope something will be done to restore the stonework of the lower part of the 1970s residential-cum-shopping building in front of the new Parliament as this is an affront to the sparkling new surroundings.

Also, something should be done about the disgraceful situation of the bus station on the Phoenicia Hotel side. The Triton fountain needs to be restored to its former state of frolicking waters and lights and the many unsightly kiosks immediately beyond the bridge outside the Valletta entrance, which are a disgrace to the dignity of the old city, must be removed.