Brash offered diplomatic post to quit

Former National Party leader Don Brash was offered an ambassadorial position under a future National government if he didn't make trouble for new leader John Key, it was reported today.

The Independent Financial Review said that Dr Brash was told he might get the Washington or London postings if he accepted a back bench role or stepped down altogether.

After resigning as leader last month media speculation about what role Dr Brash would be offered by Mr Key was intense.

Instead, Dr Brash resigned as an MP and yesterday gave his valedictory speech in Parliament.

The newspaper said the offer was an incentive but Dr Brash was not given any guarantees.

Dr Brash would not confirm to the paper that he had been made the offer but said no specific offers were made and his future was discussed in "general terms".

- NZPA