Labour MP Ian Castaldi Paris said he will not contest the next election.

The announcement comes a day after it was reported that the MP must pay €300,000 in tax dues.

After months of talks with tax authorities, it seems that the MP must pay €300,000 in overdue taxes and fines, MaltaToday reports.

In a post on Facebook, Castaldi Paris said that “beyond sensational stories”, he had already taken the decision not to contest the next election.

He said the time has come to give priority to his family. Castaldi Paris has been in Parliament for a mere 18 months, having replaced Chris Cardona.

He said he will continue to represent his constituents until the end of the legislature.

His withdrawal from the election list will not stop him from continuing to work for the Labour Party, he said.