‘Politics changed from what parties believe to how they are perceived’

Lawyer and deputy leader of the Labour Party Toni Abela said politics has taken a different turn over the years, with image becoming an essential part of the deal.

"Unfortunately, the perception and how people see you out there is valued more than what you believe in," Abela said. "The PL is doing its utmost to strike a balance between perception and proposals."

Interviewed by Saviour Balzan on Reporter, Abela said the PL was reading the signs of the times, leading to the crucial difference between government and opposition.

"Unlike the PN, we do not look at the economy simply in terms of numbers and goals. We believe in economic growth, but not at the expense of the individual. Positive results are not everything: we must remember that at the heart of a growing economy there should be people."

On the coming general elections Abela did not mince his words, and without hesitation said he would leave if the PL fails to win.

"I would have no reserves to leave. If you lose, you leave. No other ways around that. But I would have carried out my political mission if the PL were elected in government."

Abela added that if Labour is elected, he would do his utmost to see that the legislature would be a success leading the PL to a second term in government.