This article is from the source 'guardian' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jun/25/peter-slipper-wants-charges-dismissed

The article has changed 2 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 0 Version 1
Peter Slipper wants fraud charges dismissed on mental health grounds Peter Slipper wants fraud charges dismissed on mental health grounds
(about 1 hour later)
The former Australian federal speaker Peter Slipper is seeking to have fraud charges against him dismissed on mental health grounds.The former Australian federal speaker Peter Slipper is seeking to have fraud charges against him dismissed on mental health grounds.
Slipper, 64, is fronting the ACT magistrates court on Wednesday. Slipper, 64, is appearing at the ACT magistrates court on Wednesday.
His lawyer said "no comment" to the media as the pair arrived at court.His lawyer said "no comment" to the media as the pair arrived at court.
Slipper has pleaded not guilty to three criminal charges relating to dishonest use of a taxpayer-funded Cabcharge card for $1,000 worth of trips to wineries near Canberra in 2010, before he became the House of Representatives speaker. Slipper has pleaded not guilty to three criminal charges relating to alleged dishonest use of a taxpayer-funded Cabcharge card for $1,000 worth of trips to wineries near Canberra in 2010, before he became House of Representatives speaker.
The prosecution alleges Slipper's travel on the three days in question was for personal, not parliamentary, purposes.The prosecution alleges Slipper's travel on the three days in question was for personal, not parliamentary, purposes.
Slipper is a former Queensland Nationals and Liberal MP, holding the seat of Fisher for two decades until being defeated at the election last September. Slipper is a former Queensland Nationals and Liberal MP, holding the seat of Fisher for two decades until defeated at the election last September.
A psychiatrist, Christopher Martin, has treated Slipper since May 2013 and has diagnosed him with a major depressive disorder.
Martin told the court his patient had made two suicide attempts last year.
Slipper had been admitted to a mental health facility five times, including in May, November and December last year. He was released as an outpatient on 10 June.
"He has a sense of no way out," Martin told the court via video link from Queensland.
Slipper had experienced alcohol abuse, had a strong sense of worthlessness and hopelessness, and a preoccupation with suicidal ideas.
"He feels as though he's a worthless human being," Martin said.
"He has brought shame and humiliation on himself and his family. His fall from grace has made him an object of public ridicule."
The court was told Slipper had become completely reclusive and saw himself as a social pariah. As a result, he dreaded social interaction and would not eat meals with others at the mental health facility.
There had been some improvement in his interactions with family and trusted friends, the court was told.
Slipper was also having marital problems.
As an outpatient he needed weekly contact with a psychiatrist and psychologist.
Slipper's arm was in a cast, underneath his suit jacket.
The hearing continues.
• Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78