Malta has fared well during the post Lehman crisis. Employment opportunities remain sound and I have been very pleased to see how the new bus service has actively moved to employ women as drivers. How cheery and happy they are as they promote the new Arriva services across these islands.

The Maltese government has adopted sound financial policies since Lehman. VAT receipts increased by €194 million since 2004. Tourism has increased and the sight of so many cruise liners at Valletta Waterfront is a sight to behold. The marinas are full. At Vittoriosa we see the most incredible yachts moored for prolonged periods of time. The economy is holding its own in other areas as enterprises like SmartCity and the new business park at the airport evolve.

There is a problem. Malta has committed to the €400 million Greek bailout, which equates to €1,000 for every man, woman and child in Malta. The average household with three children has been indebted with €5,000 of potential exposure.

Ninety-three per cent of investors believe Greece will default on its debt.

The government does not have any security for the bailout payment. It seems unlikely it will gain anything in this regard.

So, I ask, should Greece default, who will settle the final bill? I believe it is incumbent on the Maltese government to be transparent with its constituents and share its emergency funding plan with the Maltese people.

Europe is the Glue Factory where economic growth is faltering at an alarming rate. There is a high probability that Germany and France will be entering a full- blown recession.

If Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi could share his thoughts with everyone before I leave for Tunisia to observe the forthcoming election, I would be very grateful.

He should convince the Maltese people they are in fact safely grazing in open green fields and they are well away from the horrors of a Scotch Glue Factory.