The two main political parties were of one voice yesterday, sending their condolences to the family of Labour former minister Freddie Micallef, who died yesterday morning aged 72.

The two parties both praised Mr Micallef for his work during his political career, and for his contribution to the country’s development.

Mr Micallef was born in Mosta in March, 1939 and studied at the government primary school, the seminary and Stella Maris College. He took to politics in 1959 and was president of the Young Socialist League between 1963-66, and an MP between 1966-96, holding different ministerial portfolios, including of agriculture and fisheries and of employment and social services.

He is survived by his wife and three children.