A Facebook campaign has been launched to lobby towards swapping the George Cross with the Maltese Cross on the Maltese flag.

A statement issued this morning did not say who is behind the campaign.

The campaign said the George cross is "just a medal" which has been awarded to hundreds of private citizens, whilst Malta as a country only received this medal/award for its valour during World War 2 when thousands of Maltese died, sacrificing their lives for the allies and the U.K." Malta deserved much more.

"As an independent republic Malta should not bear a symbol donated to us by another country," the Campaign said.

It pointed out that the Maltese have already chosen the Maltese eight-pointed Cross as the winning design for one of the euro coins. "This means that the majority of the Maltese recognize this symbol and have an emotional attachment to it."

"We aim to raise awareness for this cause, get enough likes on this page to force the Maltese legislators to ask for a referendum on this subject if necessary. The people of Malta have a right to voice their concern on this issue," the Campaign said.

It added that the Maltese Cross symbolises Malta's struggle against any occupying foreign force.

The campaign will include a positive message towards raising awareness about the Maltese Cross and will not include any negativity against the English, the George Cross or anyone who is in favour of the present Maltese flag.