The Prime Minister this morning said that the latest Panama Papers revelations have exposed the hypocrisy of those protesting against corruption, a clear reference to the Nationalist Party.
Replying to questions by this newspaper, Dr Muscat said “what is good for the goose is good for gander” and insisted he has take the necessary steps regarding Konrad Mizzi. Mizzi was relieved of his duties as energy and health minister but retains the title of minister working without a portfolio.
“It would be interesting to see if the intermediaries mentioned in the Panama Papers are participating in the PN loan scheme,” he added.
Last Monday, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists released more data related to the international scandal known as the Panama Papers in which PN officials and others linked with the party were mentioned as having provided professional services in the setting up of offshore companies. The PN insists that there is a macroscopic difference between opening a company while holding office and offering professional services.
Asked by The Malta Independent today about the audit commissioned by Konrad Mizzi after it was revealed he had a company in Panama, the Prime Minister said that when the audit is finalised, the government will make it available to the public.
Referring to yesterday’s intervention in London during an anti-corruption summit, Dr Muscat said he made the distinction between what was illegal and politically correct. “If it is bad to open a company in Panama, to help someone open it is also incorrect. I took the necessary decisions, now Dr Busuttil needs to take his.”
Dr Muscat said he agrees with what Minister for Education Evarist Bartolo said about stopping Maltese citizens from opening offshore companies or open bank accounts in countries with which Malta does not have the exchange for information agreement.
However, he explained that this proposal should be examined in detail to view the possible effects this might have on the local financial services industry.
He also insisted that Keith Schembri should be retained as Chief of Staff.
Photo/Video Michael Camilleri