Former tourism minister Mario de Marco reiterated his concern over the Government's decision to replace David Felice as chairman of the V-18 foundation.

Addressing an audience of tourism stakeholders that included Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and Tourism Minister Karmenu Vella, Dr de Marco urged the political parties not to politicise the tourism sector.

He was making a reference to the announcement that Mr Felice was being replaced by former Labour general secretary Jason Micallef, a decision described by the Nationalist Party as having "ridiculed the country".

Dr de Marco was less harsh this morning, expressing his "concern" over the decision.

Taking the floor immediately after Dr de Marco, Mr Vella noted that Mr Felice still formed part of the foundation.

But Mr Vella broke the ice by saying that if he had a vote in the PN leadership race he would choose Dr de Marco.

The former tourism minister is gunning for the PN leadership post in a four-way race. The first vote takes place tomorrow.

Earlier Dr de Marco praised Mr Vella's invaluable advice when he was still minister, describing the incumbent "a dear friend".

The conference organised by the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association and the Mediterranean Hotels and Restaurants Academy dealt with tourism management.

Mr Vella said the Government had no interest of being a player in tourism but a facilitator. He said three-year development plans would be drawn up but these will be constantly updated to reflect the dynamic nature of tourism.

ksansone@timesofmalta.com