Is there enough time left to do this. Bankruptcy would remove him, but it is more likely he will serve his full time.

HSU wants to recover money Thomson spent

Updated: 15:47, Monday May 14, 2012

The Health Services Union (HSU) is seeking legal advice on whether it can recover money allegedly misused by former general secretary and now federal MP Craig Thomson.

The HSU’s national executive resolved to take the action at a meeting by teleconference on Monday.

A Fair Work Australia (FWA) investigation found Mr Thomson breached workplace laws and union rules by misusing HSU funds on escort services, lavish meals and electioneering.

Mr Thomson denies any wrongdoing and plans to make a statement to parliament next week.

The HSU national executive discussed the FWA report and unanimously agreed to seek urgent legal advice on legal options to pursue the recovery of ‘any monies improperly expended by the former national secretary’ or to seek damages in respect of them.

The barrister’s written advice would also canvass the prospects of success.

The motion was moved by the HSU’s West Australian branch secretary Dan Hill.

During the meeting, members raised doubts whether action could be taken, given the statute of limitations, a union source told AAP.

There was also discussion about when it would be appropriate to take action, given that the FWA’s findings have yet to be put to the Federal Court.

If Mr Thomson is forced to repay the money, and goes into bankruptcy, he would have to forfeit his seat in parliament, potentially bringing down the minority government.