The former minister responsible for Resources and Rural Affairs used to be given an annual allowance of €7000 instead of a second car for his use, Transport Minister Joe Mizzi said in parliament this evening.

Replying to a question by Charles Mangion (PL), Mr Mizzi said the former minister initially had a Prius Hybrid car allocated to him as his second car. This was rented on a five-year contract at €15 daily.

The car was used by the minister until February 2011, after which it was used by other officials.

From November 8,2010 the then minister opted to receive an allowance of €7000 annually instead of the second car - while payment for the Prius continued since this was rented on a five-year contract.