Energy Ministry Konrad Mizzi today said he is an obvious target for attacks by the PN, as the Party it is “annoyed” by the strong performance of the energy sector under his tenure.

Addressing a press conference, Dr Mizzi said that the intense scrutiny off his wife’s appointment as an envoy to Asia is “unfair,” as it was Malta Enterprise that approached her for the position.

He said that his wife has been placed on salary scale three and granted the “standard” allowance when it comes to travel expenses.

Dr Mizzi said that no discussion with the Prime Minister took place regarding Ms Mizzi’s appointment prior to August.

On the three month hedging agreement on gas prices announced yesterday, Dr Mizzi pointed out that come December gas prices usually rise, therefore families are better off and do not have to worry about gas prices over the Christmas period.

The minister said that he “hopes” that prices will not increase in January as the peak is usually in December, but said that he does not have “a crystal ball.”

He said that the hedged prices had been agreed between the dominant operator in the market, LiquiGas, and the Malta Resources Authority.  Dr Mizzi pointed out operators can offer a lower price if they so wish, as the price announced is the maximum one.