The proposed bill by Minister for Justice, Equality and Governance Edward Zammit Lewis regarding the appointment of permanent secretaries is not enough to change the state of the country, and it will need to be amended, PN MP Joe Ellis said.

Zammit Lewis tabled a bill which amends the Constitution to reflect more independence when it comes to selecting permanent secretaries, which is in line with the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe's recommendations, he said.

Malta had heeded the British tradition that the administration of the ministries and the politicians were distinct.

With the proposed bill, the Principal Permanent Secretary (PSS) would handpick a number of people who will appear before the Public Service Commission (PSC). These would then be nominated for appointment to the various ministries as permanent secretaries, and finally, appointments will be confirmed by the President.

Another feature of the updated bill is that the Public Service Commission includes two people each nominated by both the government and the opposition, while the chairman would be agreed upon by both sides.

In reply, the PN MP Ellis stated that although the PN is in line with the proposed amendments, there are some issues with it that need to be addressed.

He underscored the importance of permanent secretaries in the country, even when it comes to changes in administration, so that the country runs smoothly.

The MP also recalled how Alfred Sant had retained the permanent secretaries which were already at the helm when he was elected in Government, and pointed out that Muscat "made a huge mistake" by removing them from their roles abruptly - pushing them to resign. The MP said that this mistake should not take place again.

He pointed out that their duty is "towards the state, not the government" and said that their contribution is not simply about being loyal to what a minister wants, but rather to the country's wellbeing.

Ellis pointed out a lack of rigorousness in the proposed bill, as the President would act on the advice of the Public Service Commissioner which would receive the recommendations from the Principal Permanent Secretary, who is handpicked by the Cabinet.

He argued for the government to reconsider the proposed bill, as although the PN agrees with the fact the government will have less say, the PN still believes more should be done in order to mitigate it as much as possible to the point of total independence from government intrusion.