Parliament yesterday adjourned 10 minutes before time after Nationalist spokesman on culture Francis Zammit Dimech objected to a discussion being held on the financial estimates of Heritage Malta because the annual and financial reports, together with the audited accounts, were not tabled with the estimates.

The estimates are now expected to be presented for discussion in the House during today’s sitting.

On a point of order raised by the the Nationalist MP after the motion to discuss the financial estimates for Heritage Malta and the Culutural Superintendence had been formally moved, Dr Zammit Dimech claimed that not enough information had been provided for a proper discussion according to law.

He said that the government had only presented a two-page report on the financial estimates for Heritage Malta to the Opposition. According to law the motion had to be presented to the House much earlier and could therefore be declared null and void. He insisted that he was ready to request a ruling from the Speaker of the House.

Culture Minister Owen Bonnici replied that he could introduce the debate in today’s sitting and provide the necessary documentation to the Opposition spokesman in time for his reply in another sitting. He said, however, that the government was ready to consider the Opposition’s request.

Opposition whip David Agius proposed that the governemnt adjourn the sitting with both sides agreeing on a date for the debate after the necessary documentation is forwarded to the Opposition.

Government whip Carmelo Abela propsoed a postponement of the debate and called for an adjournment.

The House is to debate the estimates in this evening’s sitting.