PBS CEO Anton Attard this afternoon denied allegations by the chairman of One, of prostituting himself to “metaphorically steal talent and productions from One (TV), no matter what".

Jason Micallef, who also heads the Valletta 2018 Foundation, wrote on Facebook that this was unacceptable and if there was someone in authority who approved of such behaviour and thought he would remain silent for good, then this person was mistaken.

He said Mr Attard used to head NET and the Nationalist Party's logistics until the last election.

“One (TV) has the people’s support and these people have a right to know what is going on behind the scenes for its existence to be undermined by someone who in the most strange manner still manages PBS. For now, I will stop here," Mr Micallef said.

Mr Attard said when contacted that programme selection at PBS was carried out according to the national broadcasting policy.

"Following the publication of the Programme Statement of Intent, a number of programmes which are currently aired on One TV submitted an application."

He said the PBS editorial board, and not the CEO, shortlisted the programmes. The schedule was then approved by the board of directors.

"I did not approach any programme which is currently aired on One TV to submit an application with PBS.

"I cannot understand how I can be held responsible if private television producers applied and want their productions aired on PBS," Mr Attard said.