The European Commission yesterday issued its second warning to Malta over the non-communication of measures to ensure the implementation of a directive on combatting sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children and child pornography.

The directive harmonises criminal offences related to sexual abuse of children. It lays down a minimum level for criminal sanctions and also includes provisions aimed at combating online child sex abuse and child sex tourism.

The measures had to be implemented by the end of 2013. However, despite a formal notice, the first step of the EU’s infringement procedures, sent to Malta in January of last year, the government has so far failed to respond.

Malta has been given two months to reply. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the European Court of Justice.