The book, Queer Mediterranean Memories: Penetrating the Secret History and Silence of Gay and Lesbian Disguise in the Maltese Archiepalgo, was presented to The Hon Dr Joseph Muscat, Leader of the Opposition and of the Labour Party, on 9 March 2010, at a little after noon, and at the party's headquarters in Hamrun. Also present was Mr Gino Cauchi MP. Not only did Dr Muscat agree to my request to have the presentation of the book photographed but he arranged for a photographer to be present. He also made sure that the book was in the photograph.

The meeting was relaxed and lasted some 45 minutes. I am in no doubt whatsoever that both Dr Muscat and Mr Cauchi have a genuine and deep commitment to improving the plight of homosexuals in Malta. Dr Muscat has already made it clear that the Labour Party has no room for people who are homophobic. His most important initiative so far has been the establishment of a gay and lesbian group within the Labour Party, similar to Rainbow Labour in Australia and the Log Cabin Republications in the USA. Dr Muscat and Mr Cauchi deserve the full support of the gay and lesbian movement.

A request was also made to present a copy of the book to His Excellency Dr George Abela, the President of Malta. The author received a reply in a letter dated 26 January 2010. Its contents appear immediately below.