Robert Abela Calls For Debate On Whether Standards Commissioner Can Be Ex-MP
Prime Minister Robert Abela has called for a debate on whether Malta’s Standards Commissioner could have previously served in Parliament.
Responding to questions in a press conference this morning, Abela said that while he thinks scrutiny is important for a democratic society to function, certain reforms could be made in the name of good governance.
“The Standard’s Commission is important in any democracy. But do I believe it should be reformed? We as a government are looking into reforms across the board to strengthen our institutions,” the Prime Minister said.
“I do believe that we need to discuss and debate whether the Standard’s Commissioner can be an ex-Member of Parliament,” Abela added.
Time stamp: around 30:00
This comes after several Labour MPs heavily criticised Standards Commissioner George Hyzler after his office published a number of damning reports on the conduct of some Cabinet members.
Government whip Glenn Bedingfield lashed out against Hyzler last week during a parliamentary adjournment speech, attacking him for highlighting issues within the Labour Party without addressing his own.
Bedingfield called for his resignation, accusing him of strategically harming the government as an ex-PN MP.
Abela didn’t comment on whether he agreed with Bedingfield’s comments.
What do you make of Abela’s remarks? Comment below
READ NEXT: Former Lands Minister Deborah Schembri Lands New Job With Malta Developers Association
