Morning Briefing
Labour MEP investigated after lobbying scandal emergence
Labour MEP Daniel Attard is under investigation by Belgian police after meeting a Huawei lobbyist at a football match last year. Authorities have requested the lifting of his parliamentary immunity. The request follows recent raids across Europe linked to alleged misconduct by Huawei lobbyists. Attard’s involvement emerged after investigators found he attended a match alongside a lobbyist under scrutiny. In a statement, Attard said he has asked European Parliament President Roberta Metsola to waive his immunity and allow a full investigation. He also requested to be heard by investigators and is consulting with the S&D group on any necessary steps, stressing he has “no involvement” in the case. (Times of Malta)
Malta, Jordan reach cooperation agreement
Malta and Jordan have signed new agreements to boost cooperation across sectors such as tourism, education, culture, water, and energy. The deals were signed during Prime Minister Robert Abela’s official visit to Amman, where he met with King Abdullah II. Abela described the visit as a key moment in the countries’ longstanding friendship and said the new framework will bring technical teams together to identify areas of mutual benefit. “In this spirit of partnership, we aim to continue enhancing our cooperation in various areas, and today we are advancing collaboration in tourism, education, culture, as well as in water and energy cooperation. The Framework Agreement for Cooperation being signed today will bring together technical teams from both our countries to identify areas of mutual interest that can benefit us all,” Abela said. (Maltatoday)
PN, PL trade barbs on cost of living
The Nationalist Party has warned that the cost of living in Malta continues to rise faster than in many other countries, with April statistics showing further increases, particularly in food prices. The PN blamed the crisis on the Labour government’s economic model, calling it a failure after 12 years, and criticised what it described as reckless public spending. It argued that while families and businesses struggle, the government remains out of touch and has no real solutions. The PN reiterated its proposals, including tax exemptions on part-time and overtime work, tax-free COLA, and support for importers and exporters. It also called for a new economic model focused on quality jobs and fair wages. In response, the Labour Party said it remains the only social guarantee for families, highlighting its commitment to wealth creation and targeted support. It accused the PN of opposing key measures aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures.