Craig Thomson declares independence

Craig Thomson has now declared his independence, voting with the Coalition for the first time since he was elected as a Labor candidate in 2007.

Thomson was stood down from the Labor caucus in April by Prime Minister Julia Gillard. He is still battling accusations made against him by Fair Work that he misused members’ funds while he was secretary of the Health Services Union.

“I’ve always said that when I became an independent I would look at all issues on their merits, but support the government on supply and confidence motions,” Thomson told AAP.

“I am looking out for what’s best for the people of the (NSW) central coast.”

However, Opposition Treasury Spokesman Joe Hockey said the Coalition was not prepared to accept Thomson’s vote.

This article first appeared on SmartCompany.