PM won't comment on Thomson charges

PRIME Minister Julia Gillard says she will not comment on the charges laid against independent MP Craig Thomson over the alleged misuse of union funds.

Fair Work Australia (FWA) on Monday commenced civil proceedings in the Federal Court against Mr Thomson, leading to questions as to whether Labor would fund his legal defence in order to prevent a by-election.

The MP has been accused of using the Health Services Union (HSU) credit card for personal purchases, including prostitutes, while he was the union's national secretary between 2002 and 2007.

The statement of claim was based largely on the findings of a three-year investigation that concluded this year.

Ms Gillard was asked about the developments shortly after arriving in the Indian capital New Delhi for a three day visit.

"I'm not going to comment on a matter that's before the courts," she told reporters.

Asked what impact the case might have on Mr Thomson's ability to remain in parliament, Ms Gillard said: "I'm also not going to wargame a lot of hypothetical questions about a matter that's before the courts."

Parliamentarians can retain their jobs if found guilty in civil proceedings but not if convicted of criminal matters.

But politicians cannot remain in parliament if bankrupted.

The government says it has no intention of paying Mr Thomson's legal costs.

Mr Thomson says he will vehemently fight the charges.

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