The changes made to the Cabinet code of ethics opens the door for a possible return of Franco Mercieca to a role close to Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.

Mr Mercieca had been appointed parliamentary secretary for the elderly in March 2013 but had relinquished the post a year later because he wanted to continue his profession as an ophthalmologist.

The possibility that ministers and parliamentary secretaries can still retain their profession is deemed in the national interest gives Mr Mercieca a chance of making a return to the Cabinet.

He is being named as a potential replacement to Gozo Minister Anton Refalo if the scandal surrounding the works for votes in Gozo escalates. Mr Mercieca is favourite for the job if Dr Refalo is fired.

Contacted yesterday, Mr Mercieca said that he has no idea if the changes in the new Code of Ethics were tailormade for him, adding that it was Cabinet’s decision and he is not a part of Cabinet.

Asked by this newsroom if he had been contacted or consulted on the new code, he said he was not. He was also asked whether he has been contacted by anyone about the possibility of returning to Cabinet and in reply, he again said that he was not.

Dr Mercieca said that he had heard the report on the news.