Newsroom has reported local party members believe Barclay's selection - which took place in the aftermath of claims he bugged a staff member - was invalid.
It was claimed that the National Party rules committee was investigating whether family members - including Barclay's mum - had tried to get voting rights to which they weren't entitled.
Maree Barclay would not say whether she had tried to get a delegate's voting rights, saying she knew nothing about it.
Earlier, Todd Barclay said he did tell the Prime Minister Bill English he made secret recordings of a staff member.
Barclay made a short statement to media this evening before walking away without answering questions.
There was speculation he would resign but he gave no indication he would do so.
The Clutha-Southland MP has repeatedly denied making secret recordings of a staff member - but English today revealed he informed police that Barclay had told him he left a dictaphone running in his electorate office and had recordings of his staff.
Reading from a prepared statement, Barclay said it was important he clarify his earlier statements to media.
"I have read Mr English's statement to police and accept it. The period in question was a very stressful one as I was in the midst of a difficult employment dispute.
"Given Mr English was my predecessor as the MP for Clutha-Southland, I no doubt spoke to him as the dispute escalated. Like any breakdown in a relationship I accept there was fault on both sides, looking back I could have handled the situation differently and I regret that."
He said for legal reasons he was unable to comment further.
"I'm sorry if any of the answers I gave this morning were misleading," Barclay said, before walking away before answering any questions, including why he lied.
