'H2' likely to follow Helen Clark out of Parliament

Helen Clark's closest adviser, Heather Simpson, is expected to leave her role now Labour is in Opposition.

Asked if she would carry on with him, new Labour leader Phil Goff said he believed the outgoing Prime Minister's chief-of-staff, known as "H2", "will have things she wishes to do".

"She is not quite as institutionalised as others around this place," said Mr Goff.

Heather Simpson is one of 175 staff employed by the Department of Internal Affairs in ministers' offices who may have to find jobs now National is in. There are also staff from other Government departments providing "portfolio" support.