The State of Malta (Maltese: Stat ta’ Malta), commonly known as Malta, existed between 21 September 1964 and 13 December 1974. It is the predecessor to the modern-day Republic of Malta.
The Crown Colony of Malta became independent under the Malta Independence Act 1964 (c. 86) passed by the British Parliament.[1] Under the new Constitution of Malta, approved in a referendum held in May of that year, Queen Elizabeth II became the Queen of Malta. Her constitutional roles were delegated to the governor-general of Malta. Between 1964 and 1974, Elizabeth II visited Malta once, in November 1967.[2]
Governors-general
The following governors-general held office in Malta between 1964 and 1974:
- Sir Maurice Henry Dorman (21 September 1964 – 4 July 1971)[3][self-published source?]
- Sir Anthony Mamo (4 July 1971 – 13 December 1974)[3]
Prime ministers
The following held office as prime minister (and head of government) of the State of Malta during this period:
- Giorgio Borġ Olivier (21 September 1964 – 21 June 1971)[4]
- Dom Mintoff (21 June 1971 – 22 December 1984)[4]
Transition to republic
On 13 December 1974, following amendments to the Constitution by the Labour government of Dom Mintoff, the monarchy was abolished and Malta became a republic within the Commonwealth with the function of head of state vested in a president appointed by Parliament.[5][non-primary source needed] The last governor-general, Sir Anthony Mamo, was appointed the first president of Malta.
References
- ^ “Orders of the Day — Malta Independence Bill”. TheyWorkForYou. Retrieved 2026-01-16.
- ^ “The Queen of Malta Visits Malta (1967)”. The Royal Channel. 1 March 2022. Retrieved 28 March 2026.
- ^ a b “Malta: Heads of State: 1964-1974”. archontology.org. Retrieved 22 May 2021.
- ^ a b Dieter Nohlen & Philip Stöver (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1302 ISBN 978-3-8329-5609-7
- ^ Articles 51, 96 and 78 of the Constitution of Malta
