EP debate on Malta on 14 June

The European Parliament has scheduled the debate on Malta and the rule of law, following the Panama Papers revelations, for 14 June.

The EU Parliament’s Conference of Presidents, which is comprised of one representative from each parliamentary group, had discussed the possibility of holding a debate about Malta following the latest allegations regarding people surrounding Malta’s prime minister. They originally considered holding the debate prior to Malta’s election, but now seem to have settled on 14 June

According to the draft agenda, the debate, titled ‘Council and Commission statements - Panama Papers follow-up and the rule of law in Malta’, will take place after 3pm that day.

A source speaking with this newsroom explained that the Commission and Council will first make a statement on the topic, and then the floor will open up to MEPs present.

The well-informed source within the European Parliament told this newsroom that the reason for this debate is not directly the financial services sector, but rather on political accountability and the rule of law.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat had previously been summoned by the PANA Committee and the Green Party for questioning in Brussels, which was meant to take place today. The PM, however, has refused to go until the magisterial inquiry into allegations that his wife owns Egrant conclude.