The importation and bottling of gas is an economic activity that is liberalised and open to competition, the government said in a statement.

Replying to comments made by the Malta Labour Party, the government said that it believes that in a free market prices are regularised through competition. While Gasco will be taking over the Gas Division, that is so far part of Enemalta Corporation, this transition does not stop any other enterprise from operating in the market.

The government also pointed out that a regulator exists and part of its responsibility is to ensure that consumers suffer from no abuse. If for a period of time there is only one operator, the authority will be vigilant over the price of gas.

The MLP statement raises doubts as to whether the party really believes in the benefits of an open market, and this in spite of the positive experiences in other sectors of the economy.

The MLP continues to profess a policy of government control, the government said.