Nationalist Party backbenchers engaged in a war of words during a stormy meeting of the PN Parliamentary Group at Villa Francia in Lija.

Robert Arrigo and Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando walked out of the meeting but were later persuaded to return in what sources said was a screaming match after Beppe Fenech Adami, the former leader's son, criticised those who publicly criticised the party and the government. Such people's place was not in the group, Dr Fenech Adami is said to have told the group.

The Nationalist Party in a statement later said the parliamentary group has unanimously decided to put off debate in parliament on the power station extension until a report requested by the Public Accounts Committee was submitted.

The debate was requested by the Opposition, which gave notice of a motion which hits out at the government over the way the winning tender was selected. (see http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20090919/local/pl-motion-condemns-minister-on-power-station-contract )

The PN said the group meeting, held this morning, also discussed the lotteries and gaming bill, currently before Parliament and the remaining parliamentary agenda up to the presentation of the Budget.