Independent MP Carolyn Parrish says Prime Minister Paul Martin has left the door open for her to return to the Liberal fold.

The Toronto Star reports that the suggestion came from the prime minister himself last Thursday, after she voted in favour of passing the government's budget in a crucial confidence vote.

"He gave me a big hug and a kiss," Parrish told the Star.

She says a colleague asked if it wasn't time for Parrish to return to caucus, and Martin said: "Whenever, you're ready," according to Parrish.

The controversial Ontario MP tells the Star that she'll delay making a decision until Justice Gomery's Commission tables its report on the sponsorship scandal.

Parrish was booted from the Liberal caucus last November after making anti-U.S. comments.

She stomped on a doll bearing the likeness of President George Bush on a popular comedy show and said during a Broadcast News interview she wouldn't shed a tear if Martin loses the next election.