The Opposition this evening complained that parliamentary question time was being wasted and denied to the opposition after a series of questions by Labour MP Anthony Agius Decelis elicited long written replies which were read on Foreign Minister George Vella's behalf by the transport minister.

Opposition leader Simon Busuttil and whip David Agius said that since copies of the replies were distributed to MPs, and since the minister was not present to answer supplementary questions, the replies should be taken as read and the House should move on to other questions.

Transport Minister Joe Mizzi initially refused to take up the Opposition's suggestion, saying he had to follow Standing Orders, especially as the questions had not been put to him.

The Speaker said that in terms of Standing Orders, replies had to be read, but MPs could agree on alternative arrangements.

Mr Decelis said Labour MPs had the same right as the opposition to ask questions.

The prime minister eventually agreed that the replies could be taken as read, but he cautioned that this should not set a precedent where the House skipped questions as put on the order paper. 

Dr Vella is currently in London for Commonwealth talks.