The government is proposing to abolish ministerial asset declarations as part of a wider overhaul of parliament’s code of ethics, through legal amendments tabled by Jonathan Attard.The changes would remove a long-standing requirement for ministers to “immediately provide a statement of his assets and interests to the Cabinet Secretary”, effectively scrapping a separate layer of financial disclosure for members of the Cabinet as reported by Times of Malta.Prime Minister Robert Abela has previously defended the move, arguing that ministerial declarations are unnecessary given that MPs already submit annual financial declarations.However, the proposal has faced criticism from Joseph Azzopardi, who warned that the existing MP declarations are “less detailed”.In a letter published in January, Azzopardi cautioned that the change would reduce transparency, noting that ministers would no longer be required to declare income, financial investments or bank accounts held by their spouses.“Such information was required by the ministerial declaration form, but not the form for MPs. This was a setback for transparency in public life, and it sent a very negative message,” Azzopardi wrote.He also highlighted that MP declarations are not publicly published and are difficult to access, as journalists and members of the public are not allowed to take copies or photographs of them.While the reform is being presented as a move to strengthen ethical standards, it also introduces changes that would narrow property disclosure obligations.Under the current rules, MPs must declare properties owned by themselves or jointly with their spouses. The proposed code, however, only requires MPs to declare “his own immovable property,” removing the obligation to include assets solely owned by spouses.At the same time, other areas of financial disclosure would be expanded. MPs would be required to declare their profession or occupation over the past three years, rather than just the previous year, and explicitly list income from employment or professional work, including naming their employer.New requirements would also include the declaration of virtual currencies and intangible assets such as patents, trademarks, copyrights and brands.The draft reform also introduces a formal register of interests, requiring MPs to disclose consultancy roles, professional interests linked to legislation, memberships in voluntary organisations, sponsored travel and any potential conflicts of interest.In addition, the proposed code outlines guiding principles for MPs, including prioritising the common good over private interests, acting objectively and honestly, using public resources responsibly and maintaining transparency in decision-making.MPs would also be expected to respect the Speaker and fellow members, and avoid abusing the powers and privileges of their role.The proposed changes are set to be debated in parliament.•