Labour leader Joseph Muscat said today that he would convene parliament as soon as possible to approve the Budget. He would also attend next week's EU summit.

He made his comments at Naxxar counting hall, where he was giving a rousing welcome by the Labour Party counting agents.

They burst out into cries of Taghna Lkoll, Taghna Lkoll, Viva l-Labour,  and Joseph, Joseph as they pressed to get near the prime-minister-elect in the confined space.

This was his first appearance since Labour won its historic victory.

He said Labour would govern as a movement and work with the opposition and those who did not identify themselves with any party.

He said a priority of the new government would be the energy plan and the reconvening of parliament as soon as possible for the approval of the Budget.

He paid tribute to Lawrence Gonzi, saying he had done a lot for the country, although he had not always agreed with him. He said he would hold talks with Dr Gonzi to establish who would serve as Leader of the Opposition - a situation Labour had gone through five years ago when Dr Sant resigned and did not serve as Opposition leader.

Dr Muscat said he would attend the EU heads of government meeting next week. In that case there was no divergence from the government's position, he said.