Labour MP Leo Brincat yesterday called on Mr Speaker Michael Frendo to recommend that both the Prime Minister and the Foreign Affairs Minister answer a parliamentary question relating to the financial package of Malta’s ambassador to the EU Richard Cachia Caruana.

Mr Brincat said his request was based on the need of transparency in the scrutiny of public finances.

He appreciated it was not the Speaker’s duty to rule on ministers’ replies to parliamentary questions. However, he said, the information had been denied him twice. His first question was tabled on June 6.

The question, which appeared on yesterday’s order paper, asked the Prime Minister, among others, to say what Mr Cachia Caruana’s whole remuneration package, including global emoluments, allowances and any other financial benefits consisted of. Dr Gonzi was also asked to produce all contracts of service relating to the former ambassador in their original forms and as amended, if this was the case.

Mr Brincat also asked whether, once he attended Cabinet meetings, Mr Cachia Caruana received income compatible to that of ministers.

The Speaker took note of Mr Brincat’s request. On Tuesday, Carmelo Abela (PL) made a similar request to Dr Frendo in light of the fact he was denied information regarding government funds for Air Malta and payment by the government to consultants to the airline task force.