KEY POINTS:
An awkward early task for new National leader John Key will be deciding what to do with his predecessor, Don Brash - who is willing to stay on as an MP if he gets an attractive portfolio.
Dr Brash yesterday reiterated that he does not see any point in hanging around as an MP if he cannot make a contribution in a solid portfolio.
If the new leader wanted him to be deputy associate consumer affairs spokesman, Dr Brash would "probably go and prune my kiwifruit orchard".
If he resigned from Parliament the next person on National's list - Katrina Shanks - would be tapped on the shoulder to become an MP.
Mr Key has much to weigh up when he decides Dr Brash's future.
His credibility has been damaged by Nicky Hager's book The Hollow Men and Mr Key may want to make a fresh start without him. Dr Brash's age - 66 - may also count against him.
On the other hand, he remains well respected among some core National supporters.
Some National sources have ruled Dr Brash out of a role on the party's front bench, although others are not so negative about his chances.
Dr Brash said yesterday he and Mr Key had not yet talked about portfolios.
"It very much depends on the wishes of the new leader," he said. "We'll have to wait and see what happens."
