Updated - The House of Representatives has reconvened after the Christmas recess in what could well be its last ordinary sitting.

Rebel MP Franco Debono, who has said he will back a no-confidence motion which will be debated next week - is present, but, unusually, he is sitting on the very last seat on the government side. He normally sits behind the prime minister.

He was seen in a brief, relaxed conversation with the whip of the Nationalist Group, David Agius.

Dr Debono later moved two seats and sat near Jesmond Mugliett.

He left the Chamber at about 6.45 p.m.

The House is today due to debate amendments to the Education Act. This is a money bill, but no vote is expected today.

Another money bill, the Budget Measures Implementation Bill, is the second item on the agenda.

Question Time is being held normally and the political crisis seemed distant as ministers replied to questions which ranged from hospital waiting time to sewage overflows, the provision of animal feed, safety at quays and road repairs.

The House expressed its condolences to Dr Francis Zammit Dimech following the passing away of Ann Zammit Dimech.

The House also approved the transfer of properties to 13 NGOs and religious societies following unanimous agreement reached in the House Audit Committee.

The debate on the Education Act (amendment) Bill then started.