Pressure on Buswell to explain

Premier Colin Barnett believes Troy Buswell must give a public explanation to resume his career as the Member for Vasse.

Mr Buswell confirmed yesterday he intended to attend when Parliament resumes on Tuesday but gave no indication of breaking his silence over his actions that led to his resignation from the ministry and the loss of his driver's licence for a year.

Notre Dame University politics professor Martin Drum said Mr Buswell should "explain what he can" about the night he drove his ministerial car into four parked vehicles, a pole and a gate after drinking for several hours.

Mr Buswell did not speak to police before being convicted on Tuesday of 11 charges of careless driving, failing to stop and failing to report the crashes.

He has also offered no explanation and has been on leave since the crashes, dealing with mental health problems the Premier described as "a breakdown".

But Mr Buswell told his local Busselton newspaper last week he was "back on deck full-time" as the local MP and looking forward to having more time to re-engage with his community.

It is understood the declaration took senior Government figures by surprise. Sources close to the former treasurer insist his health problems are real.

Mr Buswell did not respond to requests to speak this week.

Yesterday outside a gymnasium where he trained next to his former chief of staff Rachael Turnseck, he declined to speak to The Weekend West , other than say: "See you on Tuesday."

Buswell colleagues were mostly reluctant to speak on the record about him yesterday but those who gave background said it was up to him whether he chose to explain himself.

Asked if it was acceptable that Mr Buswell had not spoken to police and whether he should explain himself, Mr Barnett said: "Troy has been, and will be, treated the same as any other citizen in this matter and the issues surrounding damage will be assessed by the insurers."

He was sure Mr Buswell would answer questions when ready but it is understood he believes Mr Buswell must speak on the issue.