The Opposition is calling for wider consultation regarding the €0.50c per night tourism tax, arguing that operators have not had enough time to implement the necessary changes for bookings.

PN MP Antoine Borg addressed a press conference alongside PN candidate St Paul's Bay Mayor Graziella Galea.

Mr Borg said that the Opposition is not against the tax, however criticised the government for not consulting all stakeholders.

He recommended that, "at the very least, it should be postponed to November," which would effectively be after the peak tourism season. He argued that some operators would need to bear the cost given that bookings had already been made.

He also spoke of the need of increased administrative staff to work this system, "especially when it comes to host families".

On her part, Mayor Galea referred to the change in law regarding billboards, and said that consultation did not take place, resulting in anger from those affected including shop owner and businesses.

The 50c per night tourist eco-tax, which was announced in the last budget, was meant to come into effect in April, and is expected to generate roughly €6 million a year.

Although the tax was theoretically rolled out  in April, funds would not start to be collected till June.