The Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Mario de Marco, has expressed concern about the prospects for tourism in winter. Although Malta experienced an increase of 11.9 percent in arrivals in the past seven months, airlines are expected to reduce seat capacity, mainly as a result of high fuel prices. The MTA, however is in contact with various airlines to encourage them to open routes to Malta, or strengthen existing services. It will also embark on a more focused marketing campaign.

Speaking in an interview published today in The Sunday Times, Dr de Marco lays strong emphasis on the link between tourism and the environment. He also discusses low cost airlines, saying incentives given by the government so far have been worth it.

"It wasn't a mere coincidence that we had a record in 2007 and it seems like we'll have a record year too in 2008."

He admits that more needs to be done, and is being done, to improve public transport and the building construction rules in tourist areas.

The interview was conducted by Herman Grech. See excerpts above.