The Labour-controlled local council of Zejtun has backed plans for the setting up of a university in the south of Malta.

It said that the closure of the dockyards had caused unemployment and depressed the economy in the area, including Zejtun.

It was therefore not justifiable to raise objections which could hinder this investment when these objections were based on half truths and twisting of facts.

“It is today far more difficult to attract substantial, quality investment than starting a crusade for the environment,” the council said.

While the environment should be protected, the council said the new university should take up the least amount of rural land possible, the rights of farmers should be safeguarded and the nature park should be considered as a part of the project and should be set up at the same time. .

The motion was backed by the Labour councillors while nationalist councillors voted against.