Updated Monday 9.10am with more comments by minister

The Auditor General has been asked to investigate alleged abuse of public funds by the Films Commission, the Tourism Authority and Clayton Bartolo in connection with the tourism minister's wedding last weekend.

The request was made by ADPD, which pointed out that substantial funds had been spent by the Films Commission and the MTA at Manoel Island in preparation for the Malta Film Festival.

But even before the festival was held, the facility was used for the minister's wedding. 

The party referred to a report by The Shift News and called on the auditor to investigate what appeared to be abuse of public funds, with spending made for a public purpose having been used for a private activity.  

The minister, meanwhile, denied the claims, saying in a Facebook post that he and his bride had paid for everything used at their civil wedding and he was saddened that the ceremony had become a political football.

In another Facebook post on Monday, Bartolo said he looked forward to the auditor's investigation and was offering his full cooperation.

He said he expected ADPD's administration to resign once it was confirmed he had committed no wrongdoing.