Dr Philip Muscat, who served as Minister of Education and Minister of Parastatal Industry under the Mintoff administration, passed away yesterday at the age of 80.

Dr Muscat was a GP in his home town of Zebbug before entering politics in 1956. He was elected to the House of Representatives for the first time in 1962 and was always re-elected up to 1992.

He served as Minister of Education between 1976 – 1983 and as Minister of Parastatal Industry between 1983 – 1987. During his term as Education Minister, Dr Muscat was responsible for the introduction of the student-worker scheme as well as the setting up of the Junior Lyceums.

Meanwhile, the Labour Party issued a statement expressing its condolences with Dr Muscat’s family. It stated that throughout his career as a doctor as well as a politician, Dr Muscat had worked tirelessly within the party and had continued to involve himself until quite recently. On learning the news, Labour leader Joseph Muscat contacted the family personally to convey his sympathy for their loss.

The Zebbug local council has cancelled its New Year’s Day activities as a sign of respect towards the Muscat family.