The government is to institute libel proceedings abroad against New Europe (which calls itself the European Political Newspaper) over comments in its issue of February 26-3 March, the Prime Minister said in parliament.

Dr Gonzi was replying to a question in parliament by Jesmond Mugliett (PN) who asked what action was being taken over remarks that: "what is happening in Malta is that there is a whole illegal enterprise going on there with the full support of the politicians who are being bribed by these tuna fishermen."

The comments were made by Sea Shepherd founder Paul Watson.

Sea Shepherd activists were last year involved in clashes with Maltese tuna fishermen at sea. Their vessel had crashed into one of the trawlers and nets were cut in the incidents.

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