The historical development of the Criminal Code (3)

Abstract

AFTER the departure of Mr. John Kirkpatrick, the three remaining Commissioners undertook the completion of the Commission's work. The revision of the Code of Criminal Law was taken in hand. The initial stages of revision were marked by Stoddart's change of attitude towards Dr. Bonnici and Dr. Bonavita, and an atmosphere of aim and politeness prevailed. This gave the Maltese Commissioners to understand that Stoddart's previous objectionable conduct had been provoked by personal spite against Kirkpatrick, due perhaps to the preference the Government had given to the latter's suggestions, or to the peremptory and energetic manner with which Kirkpatrick had opposed him during the sittings of the Commission. Later events were to show that Stoddart's conciliatory attitude was ephemeral.