In the heart of Valletta, at the British High Commission on St. Paul’s Street, the phone rang. It was late 2008, and the caller was none other than the UK’s Chief Whip, Graham Stringer. He was calling to discuss Peter Mandelson, then UK’s Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, who was under fire for his involvement in the Hinduja passport affair.

The Mandelson Affair: A UK Scandal with Malta Ties

The Hinduja passport affair was a political scandal that rocked the UK in 2001. It involved allegations that the Hinduja brothers, billionaire businessmen, had been granted British passports in exchange for a £1 million donation to the Labour Party. Mandelson, who was then Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, was accused of playing a role in the affair.

Years later, in 2008, the scandal resurfaced when it was revealed that Mandelson had intervened to help the Hinduja brothers obtain visas. Stringer, who was calling from London, wanted to ensure that Malta, as a EU member, would not create any obstacles for Mandelson’s continued service in the EU Commission.

Downing Street’s Pressure Tactics

According to leaked documents, Stringer told the Maltese officials that Downing Street was “very keen” for Malta to support Mandelson’s appointment. He also hinted at potential “difficulties” if Malta did not comply. This was not a request, but a clear attempt at pressure from the UK government.

Malta, however, was not the only EU country to receive such calls. Other EU members, including Spain and Italy, also reported similar pressure tactics from the UK. The European Parliament eventually approved Mandelson’s appointment, but the affair left a bitter taste in the mouths of many EU officials.

Malta’s Response: Standing Up to Pressure

Malta, under the leadership of Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi at the time, did not buckle under the pressure. Despite the UK’s attempts to influence Malta’s decision, our country maintained its independence and voted according to its own judgment.

This incident serves as a reminder of Malta’s commitment to EU principles and its refusal to be swayed by external pressure. It also highlights the unique position Malta holds as a small EU member, often caught in the crosshairs of larger political powers.

As we continue to navigate the complex world of EU politics, let us remember this episode and the strength with which Malta stood its ground. Our small size should never dictate our resolve in upholding our values and principles.