The changes to the way Parliament operates being discussed by the government and the opposition are worth a few comments.

First of all, I am totally in favour of having the Prime Minister answering questions once every fortnight in what should be the highlight of parliamentary work. The PM should be at the disposal of Parliament to reply on anything under his responsibility, and therefore the introduction of such a measure is certainly most welcome.

Secondly, having a Speaker from the opposition shows the government’s commitment for giving the Malta Labour Party a stronger role in Parliament. Tying this with a pairing agreement is perhaps too much, but on the other hand the government must make sure that Parliament’s work is not disrupted.

Thirdly, having Parliament sittings only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays does make sense considering that so many ministers and parliamentary secretaries are abroad on European duties these days. The opposition should remember that, one day, they will be the ones who will need such an arrangement, and therefore they should agree on this matter with no questions asked.

Both sides are mature enough to come to a conclusion that is satisfactory to one and all. Let us hope that they manage to do so before Parliament reconvenes on 10 May.

Peter Caruana

Sliema