The Nationalist Party said that there is a greater need for an independent inquiry into what the Prime Minister himself has described as ‘institutionalised corruption’ in various government departments and entities, which are led by people close to Dr Muscat or were appointed by him.

In a statement following the interrogation of people connected with the residency permits scandal, the PN said that such news confirmed what Opposition leader Simon Busuttil has been saying all along – that an independent inquiry is necessary. This proposal has received the support of the independent media, but Joseph Muscat continues to resist it, the PN said.

The PN asked whether the PM has something to hide, saying that the abuse in the system is not only an example of institutionalised corruption, but is also tarnishing Malta’s name. The PN also said that foreigners are looking at Malta as somewhere where residency can be bought by bribing officers, and this is a threat to our security.

In reply, the Labour Party said the government is cleaning the dirt that started under the previous Nationalist government.

Simon Busuttil is a politician of the past, the PL said.

Police widen investigation