A group of around 30 hawkers has gathered outside the Floriana council office awaiting permits to set up stalls on the Granaries in Floriana on Saturday, during the Labour Party’s victory celebrations.

Some said they had  been sleeping outside the council offices for three days to be sure to be among the first to get permits.

The insisted that the council should issue permits on a first come first served basis when the applications open on Thursday.

There are 77 spots for hawkers on the Granaries.

The council, however, is arguing that a draw by ballot should be held if applications exceed the available spots.