The Labour Party parliamentary group is to meet Saturday to discuss the way forward following the resignation of Chris Fearne from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Funds.

Fearne resigned on Friday after he was charged with criminal offences following the conclusion of the magisterial inquiry into the deal which saw the transfer of three hospitals to the private sector. Fearne denies all charges, but he rejected the Prime Minister’s attempt to have him withdraw his resignation.

The parliamentary group meeting is being held for a discussion on who should succeed Fearne.

The former minister also holds the post of deputy leader of the Labour Party. Fearne has also withdrawn his nomination as Malta’s next European commissioner.