Cullen could quit before Budget - report

Former finance minister Michael Cullen is expected to resign from Parliament before the May 28 Budget, it was reported today.

Dr Cullen's departure has been widely anticipated.

He served as finance minister and deputy prime minister for nine years under Helen Clark, and after the election said he would stay for a while to help the new team settle in.

The Dominion Post quoted Labour Party sources as saying a resignation within the next couple of months "wouldn't be out of the bounds of possibility".

Dr Cullen would not comment on his plans.

Helen Clark is also on the way out. She is in New York this week talking to the United Nations about heading its Development Agency.

She has been shortlisted for the position.

- NZPA