So far, the nature of the allegation against Richard Worth remains shrouded in mystery, rumour and speculation. The MP's political future is absolutely clear, however. He does not seem to have one.
Not only has Worth been relieved of his portfolios and ministerial warrant. The Prime Minister's tone and demeanour when speaking to reporters this morning suggests Worth has not only lost Key's confidence as a minister, Key also believes Worth should leave Parliament altogether so serious is the allegation.
Key was not prepared to state outright that the MP should quit politics. But that was the implication of Key's answers to questions.
Worth has been given two weeks' leave to come around to making that decision himself. Otherwise, he could face expulsion from the National caucus or disciplinary action by the wider National Party.
All this when he has not even been charged.
For the sake of his own dignity, however, Worth would be wise to heed the obvious message the Prime Minister is sending him.
Key was extremely reluctant to reveal details of the allegation made against Worth, which, at this stage, is subject to a preliminary investigation by police.
However, the Prime Minister's response would suggest it is extremely serious.
If that is not the case, then Key is turning into an even tougher disciplinarian than his predecessor, Helen Clark. She fired plenty of ministers, but in most cases indicated there was a road back into the inner sanctum after a suitable period of penance.
There were no such reassurance for Worth this morning. And definitely no temporary stand down while the matter is dealt with. Quite the opposite - even though Worth has not even been charged.
Key was blunt. If Worth had not resigned, he would have sacked him.
How much that is down to the nature of the current allegations and how much it is a case of the latest episode being the last straw after the earlier scandal surrounding Worth's self-interested promotion of aviation training in New Zealand during a visit to India is a matter of conjecture at this stage .
The rumour and speculation surrounding the allegation still leaves things somewhat messy politically - and the Prime Minister's refusal to disclose publicly what he knows has not helped.
However, the Prime Minister has probably done enough to have quarantined the allegation from infecting his Government as a whole.
The other good news for National is that Worth is a list MP. That avoids another byelection - one, unlike Mt Albert, that National would have had to win.
Do you know anything about the case?
Email Patrick Gower, or call him on 04 471 9242.
