The EU has dropped a court case against Malta after the Government reached a €5m out-of-court settlement with petroleum giant Shell.

The former Government agreed the settlement with Attard Services, Shell's local representative. A Commission spokesman said it was informed by the Maltese authorities last year that the issue had been settled and Brussels decided not to pursue the issue in the European Court of Justice.

Malta had been referred to the ECJ for incorrect application of rules on airport ground handling, reflected in lack of competition in aircraft refuelling services.

Shell had won a tender aimed at opening the market, but it was effectively barred from competing as Enemalta charged exorbitant prices for use of the fuel supply infrastructure – which it was obliged to provide.

Shell sued and originally sought settlement of €30 million.

Full story in The Times.

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