Prime Minister Joseph Muscat has insisted Michael Falzon’s resignation was a sign of respect to the National Audit Office despite accusing it of vindictiveness.

Asked this morning whether he agreed with Dr Falzon’s description of the NAO report into the Gaffarena scandal as “disgusting” (porkerija), the Prime Minister stuck to the same reply given to The Sunday Times of Malta.

Skirting the question, he said Dr Falzon shouldered the ultimate responsibility by resigning his office and was defending himself.

Interviewed on Xarabank last Friday, Dr Falzon went on a tirade against the NAO, accusing its chief investigating officer Keith Mercieca of having a political motivation.

The Gaffarena scandal saw businessman Mark Gaffarena acquire €3.4 million in land and cash from the government for the expropriation of half a building in Valletta valued at some €900,000.

The NAO report concluded there was collusion between officials at the Government Property Department, Dr Falzon and Mr Gaffarena.

Dr Falzon has denied any wrongdoing, insisting he never got involved in the deal.

The Auditor General has so far opted not to comment on the accusations levelled against his office.