Allow me to congratulate Joseph Cole on his recent appointment to the position of High Commissioner of Malta to the UK. I note his extensive experience in his previous diplomatic roles.

I have always viewed, with regret, the general ignorance and apathy of the majority of my compatriots, with regard to the debt of gratitude we owe to the loyalty and affinity of the people of Malta throughout our mutual history.

However, I note that the ties between our two societies are becoming increasingly more and more tenuous, particularly among our younger generation and, now, with the increased apprehension with the onset of Brexit.

I would, therefore, request that the new High Commissioner address the relationship of Malta and the UK as a priority so that we do not lose the much-valued association of our two cultures.