Writing about the accusation involving himself and Tourist Resources Limited, Mr Dalli said: “The main attack took place on 9th June, three days before the EU elections through the publication of a story in the Times of Malta. Wonder of wonders, PBS departed from their normal practice, and not only covered the same story but practically read out the Times report.

“From inquiries that I have made all indications are pointing to a particular journalist.

“Ivan Camilleri, a journalist with PBS, kept up the attack on various occasions, for example in a press conference with yourself (the Prime minister) on the announcement of the EU parliamentary elections and in a talk show that he hosts,” Mr Dalli said.

Mr Dalli’s accusation has to be construed in the light of the fact that Mr Camilleri’s brother, Alan, is the Prime Minister’s communications co-ordinator.

On its part, the PBS editorial board said yesterday evening that the accusation by Mr Dalli against Ivan Camilleri was “incorrect and unfair”.

In a statement signed by editorial board chairman Fr Joe Borg and the chairman of the PBS board of directors, Michael Mallia, the editorial board insisted that the coverage by the News Centre and its staff on the journalistic developments regarding the former Minister was “led only by professional journalistic criteria”.

“The matter was of big public interest and PBS, as was its duty, kept the public informed by broadcasting the developments in the controversy as well as giving new information resulting from the journalistic work of its staff,” the editorial board said.

It said it was “determined to ensure that PBS continues doing its journalistic duty in a free and professional way in spite of every attack.”