Embattled independent MP Craig Thomson is in another embarrassing situation as bad as when he was stripped searched by police. Court causes over his alleged misuse of Health Services Union (HSU) funds had eaten up his savings that at one point the balance of his bank account dwindled to $60.

To help the legislator meet his legal expenses expected to reach $300,000, two strangers established the Craig Thomson Legal Defence Fund.

The legal battle had cost Mr Thomson not only his reputation but also drained him financially to the point of almost declaring bankruptcy as he found that his $190,550 MP pay is not enough to make ends meet.

The fund was established by Mark Worthington and Rodney Allan. Mr Thomson welcomed having extra finances to pay for his legal bills, but added he did not asked for it. The money was deposited in a Commonwealth Bank account.

The two also created a Web site to help raise donations to the legal defence fund. Although he did not write the appeal for money, the request for donation appears to have been made by the embattled MP, which reads, "Unfortunately these common law principals and accepted constitutional rights of every Australian have been abused by prominent politicians under parliamentary privilege and by some commentators ... To help me defend myself against these wrongful charges, your donations are greatly appreciated."

Before his expulsion from the Labor Party, Mr Craig's legal expenses for the HSU lawsuit were shouldered by the party.

RELATED STORIES