The government is not comfortable with an independent investigation into the Gaffarena expropriation deal, and has thus called for its own internal investigation, PN spokesperson for Democracy Jason Azzopardi said today.

Mr Gaffarena made a killing when the government purchased a quarter of a Valletta property off him in January, and another quarter in April with a total compensation package worth €1.65 million.

Addressing a press conference, Dr Azzopardi pointed out that divulging confidential information is not only unethical, but a criminal offence.

Both Dr Azzopardi and PN spokesperson for the Environment Ryan callus said the Internal Audit and Investigations Department reports to the Cabinet office, so Prime Minister Joseph Muscat is effectively investigating himself.

Dr Azzopardi hinted that the Internal Audit investigation may have been commissioned by the government in order to delay the Auditor General’s independent investigation.

Dr Azzopardi said that he hopes the Attorney General will be given access to all the documents, and the government will not use the excuse that an internal audit is under way.

He poured scorn on the government’s “acceptance” of the Attorney General’s investigation, saying it would take place whether the government agreed to it or not.

He also questioned the Parliamentary Secretary for Planning Michael Falzon’s u-turn, in that when the scandal first came to light Dr Falzon said there was no need for an investigation.