Had there been any doubt, it is now crystal clear. Following the letter by Anthony Formosa of the hunters' federation (FKNK), it is now the turn of Mark Mifsud Bonnici of the Kaċċaturi San Ubertu (KSU) (January 17) to come out in defence of Simon Busuttil's stance in favour of hunting in spring.

The alliance between the hunters and the PN is now being openly declared. Mr Mifsud Bonnici stresses, in fact, that "Dr Busuttil shows a sense of fairness and consistency by additionally stating that the 2008 spring season should be opened in line with his party's electoral promises".

The picture is now clear: both the MLP and the PN are in favour of hunting in spring. Alternattiva Demokratika, instead, will work to ensure the prohibition of all forms of spring hunting. It is now up to the Maltese voters to have their say on the issue.