The House National Audit Committee has postponed its decision on a government motion to devolve 19 tumoli of land to the Chinese government for the construction of its embassy in Pembroke, following Opposition concerns regarding details of the planning parameters of the development.

Parliamentary Secretary Michael Falzon said the government was proposing the devolution of more than 19,000 square metres of land in Pembroke on the same procedure and fee adopted by the former administration for the land given to the United States in Ta’ Qali for the building of its embassy.

Tonio Fenech (PN) said that, while there was no objection in principle, the Opposition was concerned about the planning parameters to be applied given the proximity to the residential area.

Opposition was concerned about the planning parameters to be applied, given the proximity to residential areas

Dr Falzon said that all development would have to follow the national planning and environmental requirements.

Mr Fenech suggested a suspension of the decision so that the government might brief the committee members on the proposed building envelope. The suggestion was agreed upon.

Members also agreed to the devolution of various other properties, namely Dar Osanna Pia to the Salesians of Don Bosco; Casa Flamini in Paola to Hibernians FC; property in Valletta to the Malta Society of Arts; property in Birkirkara to the Don Filippo Borgia Society.

The land of the indoor skating park at Pembroke was proposed for devolution, as well as that of the Għaqda Mużikali Marija Bambina of Naxxar.

Members gave the green light for a parcel of land currently occupied by St Augustine School be passed on to the government while the Augustinian Province would be given the Medical School in exchange.