Lawyers for former Manson keyboardist Stephen Bier maintain the singer would not answer inquiries about his alleged use of illegal drugs and whether he made racist comments in a deposition last month.

But attorneys for Manson contend that during his deposition, Bier refused to answer questions about his own alleged drug use and whether he was ever too impaired to perform on stage.

Attorneys for both men told their clients not to respond to the questions to protect their privacy.

Bier - known by his stage name, Madonna Wayne Gacy - sued Manson in August for more than US$20 million (HK$156 million), claiming the singer stiffed him on salary and medical support. Bier claimed Manson used the money instead to buy himself a mansion, pay for drug treatment, produce a movie, buy Nazi memorabilia and hold a fancy wedding.

Manson struck back and claimed Bier did not carry out obligations to take part in master recordings, concerts and the selling of band merchandise.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Stern is scheduled to hold hearings on June 19 and July 1 on the separate motions to compel the additional deposition answers. ASSOCIATED PRESS