Chamber of Commerce continues to sit on the fence for this election

In an address attended by Prime Minister Gonzi this evening, the Chamber of Commerce has ruled out commenting on specific proposals by either party.

Despite this, the Chamber declared itself to be in favour of the PN's balanced budget target.

Concern was expressed over the sustainability of proposals stemming from both parties, as the Chamber feels that certain measures could jeopardise the economy.

Addressing the assembled audience in English, Lawrence Gonzi said that certain lessons over the past five years have been learnt and will be institutionalised.

"We shall immediately set up an independent body in order to monitor the government's budget targets. This body will undertake a yearly audit of government finances," Gonzi said.

Continuing on fiscal policy Gonzi said that Malta's limited resources had been directed to where it really made a difference.

"That is why we were accepted to join the euro-zone, because our finances had fulfilled the Maastricht criteria."

Gonzi thanked the unions for their cooperation during the economic crisis, hailing them as "very mature."

He referred to the electoral programme costings published this morning, saying that "realistic growth projections" had been used in reaching those figures.

Gonzi finished by congratulating the assembled businesspersons on the results achieved, stating that "my own personal outlook for the next five years is good."

The press were then summarily shepherded out, and the meeting continued behind closed doors.