State of Malta


The State of 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 passed by the British Parliament. 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.

Governors-general

The following governors-general held office in Malta between 1964 and 1974:
  1. Sir Maurice Henry Dorman
  2. Sir Anthony Mamo

    Prime ministers

The following held office as prime minister of the State of Malta during this period:
  1. Giorgio Borġ Olivier
  2. Dom Mintoff

    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. The last governor-general, Sir Anthony Mamo, was appointed the first president of Malta.