The Cabinet has commissioned a review of the ministerial code of ethics to make it “more relevant to today’s realities”, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said last night.

Speaking to the press in Brussels, Dr Muscat said the code was written in 1995 and must now be updated, streamlined and “clear”.

Replying to questions about the structure of his Cabinet, he stressed the set-up for justice and home affairs ensured a “split”, with two people responsible for the different areas.

“This had worked well in previous legislatures unlike what happened in the last legislature,” he said, referring to the controversy regarding the “conflict” that arose when Carm Mifsud Bonnici was responsible for both areas.

Dr Muscat also pointed out that linking the police, the army and the civil protection department under one ministry was intended to strengthen national security and allow for more “synergy” in areas such as irregular immigration.

Asked why Public Broadcasting Services was added to the Home Affairs Ministry, Dr Muscat said PBS was sometimes placed with education or social policy. “This time we felt it would fit better here.”

Dr Muscat also defended his decision to seek the resignation of permanent secretaries. This was a “natural procedure” when there was a change in government.

It did not mean that everyone’s resignation would be accepted, he said, pointing out that permanent representative to the EU Marlene Bonnici had already been assured of her position because she was the best person for the job.

“What is certain is that we will treat everyone with dignity.”

Asked about the withdrawn request for the resignation of members of the Broadcasting Authority, Dr Muscat said this had been an “administrative mistake, not a political one” and added that a similar mistake had been made three months ago by the previous administration.