Speaker Anġlu Farrugia is “absolutely not satisfied” with the declaration of assets submitted by ministers and MPs and feels there are “questions” that need answers.

“Ministers or MPs hand in their declaration of assets and everything stops there,” Dr Farrugia tells The Sunday Times of Malta in an interview today, pointing out, however, that he does not have the authority to investigate the submissions.

MPs’ annual declarations are regulated by the House of Representatives (Privileges and Powers) Ordinance, stipulating that they are to include “immovable property, shares in commercial companies, investments, money deposited in banks, any other form of pecuniary interest and directorships”.

Dr Farrugia also defends the number of times he has travelled since being appointed Speaker – 41 times in 29 months – and says that trips to Sicily, where he has a home, have been purely business.

He also stresses that he spends as little as possible on travel, unlike others: “There are times when I am in economy class while permanent secretaries on the same aircraft are travelling business class.”

The Speaker also defends his use of flashing blue lights on his official car, saying they are “necessary”, as well as parking right outside the new Parliament building. “Transport Malta issued a permit and gave me a slot there.”

The Speaker also talks about his relationship with the Prime Minister and the Opposition, while not ruling out a return to active politics.