Damaging U-turn

In his budget speech, the Minister for Rural Affairs, George Pullicino, stated categorically that "Malta opposed the UK's EU budget proposals".

A few days later, the Prime Minister contradicted him by stating that on this matter a "wait and see" attitude should be adopted.

Now we see that Malta has openly supported the EU budget proposals by the UK - a direct U-turn from the minister's budget speech.

Notwithstanding the fact that the government's decision is probably in the best interests of the country, the abrupt change of line is just the latest in the series of disasters created by this ministry.

We have to ask how can there be an accountable, transparent and effective government when ministers cannot act in a coordinated manner with their leader and have to be contradicted like naughty schoolboys. The Times' readers can judge for themselves the accuracy of statements and information coming from this minister and his ministry.