A decision on divorce would be taken, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi promised yesterday, admitting he was “scandalised” by those who wanted to cut corners and finalise the issue within weeks.

He was speaking on the Nationalist Party’s radio a short while after Opposition Leader Joseph Muscat said responsible divorce was “long overdue”.

During a radio interview, Dr Gonzi was adamant that, although a decision had to be taken, this could not be rushed. He said he was “scandalised” and had “deep concerns” about those who wanted to cut corners and conclude the matter within weeks, as if they were making “pastizzi” (cheesecakes).

He acknowledged the issue had to be tackled “head on” and promised not to sweep it under the carpet, insisting, however, he would not accept any guillotines because this serious topic merited serious discussion.

“After we discuss the issue internally as a party, we will start the debate in Parliament... and then see what the next step should be. That’s the only commitment I am willing to make,” he said.

Dr Muscat urged Dr Gonzi to give Nationalist MPs a free vote in Parliament, underlining the fact that his own MPs could speak freely on the issue.

He noted the “confusion” that ensued when Nationalist backbencher Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando said the Prime Minister promised a divorce debate and a referendum next year only to have the statement toned down by Dr Gonzi within hours.

“We had one meeting and two versions of what was discussed, with the Prime Minister seemingly agreeing in private on a referendum,” Dr Muscat said, adding that he would campaign for divorce whether the decision was taken in Parliament or through a referendum.