Using private email accounts for Government business isn't usual, according to National.

Broadcasting Minister Clare Curran was a no-show in Parliament today after stumbling when asked in Question Time yesterday whether she used her private Gmail for Government business.

National's shadow leader of the house Gerry Brownlee says there are obligations to have a record of all ministerial engagements.

"Subverting all of that through a private Gmail address is not on the ticket at all."

He says it's a problem when Curran used to be the Minister for Open Government.

"She was trumpeting that this would be the most open, most transparent, most willing to engage government in the history of New Zealand. Well, they've proved themselves to be anything but that."

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is now making sure all ministers are aware of rules when using personal accounts at work.

LISTEN TO GERRY BROWNLEE TALK WITH LARRY WILLIAMS ABOVE