THE Warrnambool-based father of State Labor MP Evan Thornley has defended his son's decision to reject a cabinet post from Premier John Brumby.Jim Thornley said he was surprised as anyone that his millionaire MP son would resign from Parliament on the eve of a special caucus meeting to elect a successor to controversy-riddled minister Theo Theophanous.Former union boss Martin Pakula was sworn in as Industry and Trade Minister on Monday, replacing Mr Theophanous who stood down after being charged with rape. Considered a rising star in the Victorian Labor Party, internet magnate Evan Thornley was widely considered the top choice for the cabinet position.Mr Thornley said he had not spoken to his son since he resigned on Sunday, sending shockwaves through Spring Street."Like most people, it comes as a surprise to me but I'm sure Evan has made the right decision," he said."I heard someone on the radio this morning say that he's chasing the big dollars by leaving politics, which is absolute rubbish."Why would he want to? Evan's already established himself financially."Mr Brumby revealed Evan Thornley contacted him on Saturday and told him he was no longer interested in a political career, let alone a frontbench role."He and his family had made up their mind and it was time to move on," Mr Brumby said.Mr Thornley said he and his first wife were actively involved in politics during the Vietnam War years which moulded young Evan's political perspective and social conscience."We're not from a wealthy background and he got through uni on second-hand books and clothes so he is a self-made man," he said."Evan has been quite consistent with his direction in life; he's not a humble man but he's tough."The former MP's prospective employer is believed to be a French-based company but he did not reveal which corporation in the faction room this week."Evan's always had a social conscience and been a great believer in social equality so I'm sure whatever he takes on it will be shaped by those views," Mr Thornley said.