President Abela was handed controversial speech two days early

President George Abela was handed a copy of the controversial speech he read at the opening of Parliament at least two days in advance, The Times has learnt. Dr Abela last Sunday appeared to distance himself from its content, saying: “As you saw on TV, the Prime Minister gets up and passes it on to the President to read it.” Both his office and that of the Prime Minister have declined to comment further on the matter. However, sources indicated that Dr Abela was aware of the contents of the speech before it was delivered. In comments to national broadcaster PBS, Emeritus President Eddie Fenech Adami yesterday recalled making some minor amendments to the parliamentary opening speech he made in 2008. More stories in The Times.