I remember that, during an annual general meeting in 1971/2, a motion had been moved saying that the Malta Labour Party should change its name to Socialist Democratic Party. Both the proposer and the seconder gave the reasons why the party’s name should change. In Dom Mintoff’s presence, the delegates present began applauding as though they had agreed with the proposed change.

At one point, Mintoff suddenly stood up and all those present started singing slogans in his favour (is-salvatur, the saviour). While those present thought Mintoff agreed with the change of name, he said it would be strange to call a party socialist and democratic because if one is a socialist he is automatically democratic. His audience again applauded because it seemed somewhat of an oxymoron. Even those who proposed the motion joined in the clapping and cheering.