Simon Busuttil confirmed this morning that he would be submitting his nomination for the election of Deputy Leader of the Nationalist Party following the vacancy created by the resignation of Dr Tonio Borg after his nomination as member of the European Commission.

"I have decided to submit my nomination because I want to contribute to the change that the PN can bring about in the country and I want to contribute to the renewal of the party itself."

Dr Busuttil said he believed in real change but felt that with the Labour Party, Malta would only get an artificial change.

"I want a change for the better, but I feel that with the Labour Party we will get a change for the worse. I am convinced that the PN is the best instrument for change, a real change and a change for the better for Malta and Gozo."

"To continue to pursue this change the PN needs to win the next general election and to win this election the party needs all the help it can get. Now, more than ever. I therefore want to offer my help and I appeal to all those who can help to step forward. I am standing up to be counted and I want to work side by side by Lawrence Gonzi in delivering change," Dr Busuttil concluded.

"I look forward to a tough but loyal competition for the election of PN Deputy Leader, a contest among friends, which brings out the best that the PN has to offer. I believe that this process is good for the party and good for the country."