Danny to Bill: I'm here to help

If Nova Scotia MP Bill Casey needs a boost on the campaign trail, Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams says he'll be there.

Casey, MP for Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley, was booted out of the Conservative caucus last year after voting against his party's budget in a protest over offshore energy money. He has been sitting as an Independent ever since.

Williams said he spoke to the renegade MP earlier this week.

He said Casey only has to ask for help, and he'll travel to Nova Scotia to campaign alongside him.

"I think Bill realizes that I'm busy, but I've already said to him, 'you know, if you need me, let me know.' But I think Bill is going to be fine," Williams told CBC News on Friday.

Williams said he and Casey share the same fate as Progressive Conservatives who no longer have a place in the federal Conservative party.

Casey appreciates Williams's offer.

"I won't hesitate to call if I need help," he said.

Casey was turfed after voting against a budget bill in June 2007, arguing it didn't allow Nova Scotia to fully benefit from offshore oil and gas revenues without losing equalization payments from the federal government.

Williams has had his own battles over offshore revenues and has launched an anti-Conservative campaign.

Casey is seeking his fifth consecutive term. If he wins, he will be the first Independent elected in Nova Scotia since 1874.

The Green party is endorsing Casey and won't field a candidate to run against him.

The official call for a federal election is expected on Sunday, with voting day on Oct. 14.