The National Book Council has cancelled the 2019 National Book Prize Ceremony, stating that it "cannot be held under the heavy shadow of the Office of the Prime Minister having been implicated in the investigation of the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia."

The ceremony was set for 9 December.

Writing of Facebook, the Council said: "Whilst this does not constitute an endorsement of the views held by Daphne Caruana Galizia, her role as a writer and harbinger of momentous political changes must be acknowledged."

"These times are testament to the strength of the written word; the celebration of literature is given a stronger voice if we participate in the historical events unfolding nationally. The current national crisis deserves our undivided attention."

"The National Book Council hopes to be able to announce the results of the National Book Prize in January next year under circumstances meriting the celebration of our fellow writers and their works."