Speaker Louis Galea was asked uncomfortable questions when he faced a committee of MEPs in Brussels today in a question and answer session to assess his suitability to serve in the European Court of Auditors.

During his 33-minute grilling, Dr Galea had to answer questions about allegations related to his 20-year ministerial experience, particularly on the use of public funds for the Auxiliary Workers Training Scheme in 1987 and contracts allegedly awarded to people from his district by the Foundation for Tomorrow Schools ten years ago. The questions were put by the rapporteur on his nomination, Socialist MEP Ines Ayala Sander.

Dr Galea categorically denied any wrongdoing, saying the claims made at the time had only been intended to harm his reputation ‘without even one single shred of evidence.'

Giving an overall good and reassuring performance, Dr Galea spoke about the importance of having strong EU institutions. He made repeated statements on the importance of the Court of Auditors to ensure that public funds were used well.

He said that he would like to see more involvement from the member states in assuring better administration of important European projects.

A vote on Dr Galea's nomination is expected to be taken by the EP Committee tomorrow. It will then be followed by a plenary vote later on this month.