I read with interest the comments of Charles Mangion (Facing The Challenges Ahead, January 14). As a 60-year-old half Maltese who has spent many years in the UK, I have witnessed the fall of the conservative government after 18 years in power. Dr Mangion's comments ring of those times, when the Labour opposition promised the earth but gave us the situation the UK now finds itself in. Does Malta want to end up in the same situation?

Of course, as Lawrence Gonzi claims, we live in extraordinary times. And Dr Gonzi has mismanaged the economy - show me an incumbent Administration which hasn't.

I also disagree with Dr Mangion on the fuel charges. Malta plc is a business and businesses make money. Who can justifiably claim that the old subsidy system was fair? It undoubtedly needed reform. I would also venture the opinion that Dr Gonzi and his government will sooner rather than later have to look to a self-funding system for local councils. Dr Mangion knows that it is always the most vulnerable in society who suffer during any change but he also will, I am sure, know that every fall is followed by a rise and this financial crisis will pass, as have all the others. Normally, countries are better placed to cope when this happens.

All sides should stop trying to score political points and face the challenges ahead in unity, making certain the people Dr Mangion speak for become the priority and not just the protected.