The Nationalist Party on Wednesday called on the Prime Minister to withdraw the comments he made about the judiciary last Sunday, and apologise publicly for the “irresponsible and dangerous” declarations that he made.

In a political activity, Abela said that the courts should review their sentencing policy and admitted to have discussed the matter with a magistrate.

It is not acceptable in a democratic society that the PM boasts of having had a communication with a member of the judiciary, when he knows that they have the duty not to be in such communication, the PN said.

The PN also recalled that a few weeks ago the PM had also passed remarks on the choice of magistrates in a bit to influence the people responsible for the selection process.

It is also scandalous that, rather than see that the PM behaves appropriately, Justice Minister Jonathan Attard has become his accomplice and is now justifying what the PM did, the PN said.

Abela and Attard confirm that their do not have any respect towards the independence and autonomy of members of the judiciary.

The PM should withdraw what he said and apologise, the PN said.

The statement was signed by PN spokesman for justice Karol Aquilina.

In reply, the Labour Party said that the PN wants to defend the status quo.

All society should have the right to expect the safeguarding of all institutions that are there to defend it, the PL said.

The Labour government had established mechanisms for members of the judiciary to be appointed by an independent body, and therefore does not take lesson from the PN, the PL said.

In a counter reply, the PN said the PL saw nothing wrong that a Prime Minister communicates with members of the judiciary.