What to do with an elected MP, who can't be sacked?

Pressure is mounting on Clutha-Southland MP Todd Barclay, stemming from a recording he made of staff in his electorate office.

Political commentator Vernon Tava believes told Rachel Smalley because of the link between Todd Barclay and his predecessor in that seat Bill English, he's backed into a corner.

"His problem has now become the PM's problem, because now the PM's statements are being questioned as inconsistent, so really his position is untenable, but the thing is he has to go, he can't be pushed."

An elected MP can only be forced to resign if they're convicted of a crime, carrying a prison sentence of at least two years.

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