THE inquiry into allegations that embattled Labor MP Craig Thomson misused Health Services Union funds was derailed last night. The Commonwealth Department of Public Prosecutions said it had no power to investigate whether Mr Thomson had committed a crime.
After a three-year probe, Fair Work Australia this week referred to the CDPP a report on what it said were 181 breaches of the Workplace Relations Act, including 76 potential criminal charges, which it wanted the office to consider.
But the CDPP said it was not an investigation agency.
"It does not have investigative powers and is not able to conduct a criminal investigation," the CDPP said in a statement.
"In order for a matter to be assessed as to whether a prosecution should be commenced, a criminal investigation is conducted and a brief of evidence prepared and referred to the CDPP."
Mr Thomson has been accused of misusing $100,000 on his HSU credit card, including paying for prostitutes - allegations he has continually denied.
A Fair Work Australia spokesman said yesterday it was not releasing the report publicly, on legal advice.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard said it was up to Fair Work Australia to release the report and the Government would not seek its own copy.
"I don't have anything before me which would cause me to alter from my previous statements of confidence in Mr Thomson," she said.
Mr Thomson said he had not seen the Fair Work Australia report and was "obviously incredibly frustrated" with the delays and the uncertainty about what happens next.
heraldsun.com.au 5 Apr 2012
Watch this criminal walk free.
Another example to the masses that if you're in with the right crowd you are above the law and untouchable.
Julia Gillard needs him in order to stay in office, so there will be no expellsion of this criminal.
Taxpayer funds paying for criminals in office.
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