The Minister for Economy, Investment and Small Enterprises, Chris Cardona confirmed discussions are underway with all involved regarding the relocation of the Valletta open market from Merchants Street to an alternative location.

Dr Cardona was replying to a Parliamentary question this evening.

He confirmed the location being mentioned is Ordnance Street but failed to explain whether some stalls will also be situated beside the new Parliament Building.

Ordnance Street is parallel to South Street.

In his question, PN MP Jason Azzopardi noted that an agreement was signed by Opposition Leader Joseph Muscat with individuals who set up stalls as part of the open market before the election and the site mentioned was Ordinance Street up to the Parliament building.

During question time, PN whip David Agius noted that the Prime Minister was absent for Parliament and the Opposition expects replies for questions made to him.

A government member explained Dr Muscat was absent because he was caught up in an important and urgent meeting although he was in Malta.