RCMP probe ex-MLA Len Goucher

Nova Scotia RCMP have started to ask questions in the MLA expense investigation, focusing Thursday on former MLA Len Goucher.

Goucher, a Progressive Conservative, was the member of the legislative assembly for Bedford-Birch Cove from 2006 to 2009.

Liberal Kelly Regan defeated him in the 2009 election and the RCMP spoke to Regan this week.

"I asked them, 'Is it in relation to me?' It is not in relation to me. 'Is it in relation to Mr. Goucher?' Yes, that is my understanding," Regan told CBC News on Thursday.

The RCMP spoke to Regan in the morning and an officer stopped by her Bedford office in the afternoon for further conversation.

Regan said the questions were connected to the MLA expense files handed to the RCMP by Auditor General Jacques Lapointe.

Lapointe launched a forensic investigation on MLA expenses in February and turned his findings over to police two weeks ago.

Lapointe said his investigation led him to believe four former MLAs and one current MLA may have committed "illegal acts," but he didn't provide details or names.

Regan said the RCMP's initial questions involved Goucher's staff and office furniture.

"They asked me for the names of people who worked for Mr. Goucher, if I knew where Mr. Goucher's furniture went," Regan said.

"What the RCMP is trying to do is understand the arrangements that would normally be made between MLAs when one MLA is defeated or chooses not to run again."

She said she had tried to buy some of Goucher's furniture, but hadn't succeeded.

When reached by CBC News on Thursday, Goucher said he was busy. He said he did not know anything about the RCMP inquiries and declined further comment.

RCMP declined to name anyone connected with the investigation.