The Budget Committee of the European Parliament this morning cleared the way for Speaker Louis Galea to take up his post as a member of the Court of Auditors. His nomination was approved in a secret vote with 21 in favour - two against and two abstentions.

The committee yesterday grilled Dr Galea in a 30-minute session during which some uncomfortable questions were asked in the former minister's role amid allegations made 20 years ago on the use of public funds in the Auxiliary Workers Scheme, and the granting of contracts in the minister's district 10 years ago by the Foundation for Tomorrow's schools.

But Dr Galea had replied robustly to deny the claims, pointing out that investigations had not found a shred of evidence of any wrongdoing on his part.

A formal, final vote on the nomination will be taken by the full parliament later this month, but that is viewed as being a forgone conclusion.

The PN congratulated Dr Galea and condemned socialists who tried to derail his nomination.

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