Opposition not consulted on state opening of parliament, Speaker's nomination

The Opposition was not consulted on the forthcoming state opening of parliament or the nomination of Labour MP Carmelo Abela to serve as Speaker, the Nationalist Party confirmed on Wednesday.

The opening of parliament, this Saturday, was announced at a Labour event by  Prime Minister Robert Abela on Sunday. 

At the time the PN had already announced plans to hold a meeting of its general council to confirm or appoint a new leader, as required after a general election. It subsequently moved the council meeting to June 24.

On Tuesday, the Office of the Prime Minister said Carmelo Abela would resign as Labour MP and then be appointed Speaker. 

When asked how the Opposition would vote on Carmelo Abela’s nomination, the PN spokesperson said any position taken by the party would be based on the best interests of parliament and the country.

The appointment of the Speaker only requires a simple parliamentary majority.