May I ask one simple question of Joseph Muscat, Malta’s Prime Minister, who in his electoral campaign promised accountability and transparency and a new style of politics.

“Do you think that some of the MPs in your cabinet are still fit to continue holding their posts? Citizens elect MPs to exercise power on their behalf and not for their personal gain.” We are half way through this legislature and the public at large is raising questions about the various scandals being perpetrated by certain MPs. Recent newspaper revelations are very serious indeed and yet, for our Prime Minister, it’s business as usual.

Far from accepting any blunders from our representatives, or any flaw in the rules of law, Muscat should take a break, think hard and take serious action – if he wishes to regain the support of those 36,000 votes which swept him to power.

Members of Parliament must be persuaded to lead by example, to behave, to be professional politicians, to be serious and responsible in order to be worthy of public confidence. The latest scandal, professionally unearthed by the media, is subject to proper scrutiny by Muscat and, if necessary, the perpetrators should be forced to resign.