In a statement, Dr Farrugia said that the government had pledged to the EU that it will reform the public health sector to reduce its expenditure. It is important that the government publishes its plans – which Dr Farrugia said were ready – before the election.

Everyone who suffers from diabetes gets all medication free of charge, he said. Can the government say whether this system will be maintained, or if it will be replaced by another whereby only those below a certain income will continue to get the medicines they need free of charge.

The government had said that not all those who suffer from chronic diseases will continue to be entitled to free medicine. What kind of means test is expected to be introduced, Dr Farrugia asked.

The government had said that the closure of health centres in Rabat, Qormi and Cospicua was only temporary. Does the government intend to re-open these clinics on a 24-hour basis, seven days a week, or does it intend to also close the health centres in Floriana and Gzira?

Does the government plan to charge for some services offered in health centres? If so, what are these services, he continued.

There were also plans to introduce charges for services rendered in government hospitals. Is the government still planning to do this?

Dr Farrugia added that the government has announced the introduction of a new health insurance system. How will this affect the people, he asked.