Jackson's doctor asked for CPR machine for gigs

(AP)

Michael Jackson's personal doctor asked for lifesaving equipment only days before the pop star's death, according to a lawyer who represented the promoter of the singer's planned London appearances.

Kathy Jorrie, pictured, who works for concert giant AEG Live, told the involuntary manslaughter trial of Dr Conrad Murray that he had asked for a CPR machine in case one was not available for Jackson's concerts at London's O2 Arena.

Ms Jorrie explained she had questioned some of Murray's requests, which also included the possibility of hiring a second doctor to assist him.

However, she added that Dr Murray had told her that Jackson was "perfectly healthy, in excellent condition". She said Murray told her not to worry about Jackson's health. "He's great," she recounted the doctor telling her in a conversation the day before Jackson's death.

Prosecutors allege Dr Murray caused Jackson's death by providing him with a lethal dose of the anaesthetic propofol and other sedatives without having the proper lifesaving equipment or skills.

Earlier in the day, a promoter told jurors that Jackson appeared strong during one of the final rehearsals for the concerts. Paul Gongaware, an executive for AEG Live, said Jackson seemed engaged and energetic only two days before he died.

Mr Gongaware also testified he saw Murray at one of Jackson's rehearsals.

In opening statements yesterday at the trial in Los Angeles, Deputy District Attorney David Walgren said Murray delayed calling emergency crews and failed to tell doctors and medics he had been giving Jackson medication to try to help the entertainer sleep.

Murray's lawyer, Ed Chernoff, claimed Jackson gave himself a fatal dose of medication in a desperate attempt to get some sleep. He said Dr Murray had been trying to wean Jackson off propofol, but the entertainer had kept requesting it on the day he died. AP