Alternattiva Demokratika said today that it deplored the Maltese government's "wait and see" attitude at yesterday's European Council meeting which discussed France's expulsion of the Roma people.

Arnold Cassola, Alternattiva Demokratika spokesman on EU Affairs, said in a statement that the attitude of the Maltese government of waiting and seeing what the majority decided in order to then to side with the majority, was a very servile attitude and showed a lack of dignity and self respect.

"The Maltese government should not be silenced by the shouting of big countries, in this case France, but should instead speak out clearly in favour of what is right, according to the rule of law and EU treaties." Prof. Cassola said.

"During the last plenary session, on 9 September 2010, the European Parliament adopted a strong resolution underlining its concerns about the Roma deportations in France and the need for a response from the European Commission.

"On 14 September 2010, Commissioner Reding criticised the situation in France and stated that the Commission will have no choice but to initiate legal action against France. Alternattiva Demokratika fully supports Commissioner Reding's statement that no Member State can expect special treatment, in particular where fundamental values and European laws are violated", Prof Cassola said.