Azzjoni Nazzjonali’s leader Josie Muscat and deputy leader Anglu Xuereb spoke to a number of workers yesterday during a walkabout held at the Attard industrial estate, during which AN visited a random selection of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

In general, the complaints made by the workers were that their factories are in a very bad condition, with leaky zinc roofs installed in the British period from which rain easily pours in and ruins their orders, and others made of shedding asbestos which is highly unhealthy for the workers. Another complained that he wanted to re-build the factory at his own expense, but the permit was never issued. Dr Muscat felt that in this case the factory workers’ words spoke for themselves.

AN is proposing that SMEs which aren’t making a profit should receive 20 cents for each euro spent on approved research and innovation, instead of the 15 per cent tax usually charged on R&D profits.

AN also believe there is the need for a bank that serves specifically the requirements of SMEs and instead of charging interest on the capital borrowed, would only charge interest on the earnings made.

This means the bank would have an interest in its clients doing well. Since the bank will have a revenue shortfall for the first five to 10 years, it would be subsidised by the government. However once it begins to earn money, it can be either privatised or changed into a Public-Private Partnership.