Cut CFMEU ties, boot Setka: ex-ACTU boss

Former ACTU president Martin Ferguson says it's time the Labor Party expelled John Setka and cut ties with his CFMEU construction division in Victoria.

Former trade union boss Martin Ferguson thinks the Labor Party should cut ties with the CFMEU's construction division in Victoria and expel its leader.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and the government have ramped up pressure on Labor leader Bill Shorten to act after threats by John Setka against building watchdog inspectors.

"I think it's time that the Labor Party had a hard look at whether or not Mr Setka is a fit and proper person who should be entitled to party membership," Mr Ferguson told The Australian on Friday.