Swear words triggered Roy's demotion - Hide

Heather Roy. Photo / Brett Phibbs

A defence paper containing swear words and other inappropriate language was a trigger for the demotion of Act MP Heather Roy.

Mrs Roy was associate defence minister when minister Wayne Mapp raised concerns with her leader about the paper.

Leader Rodney Hide says when he then tried to see the documents, they contained inappropriate language including mild swearing.

Mr Hide says he has also been worried about advice Heather Roy was receiving from her top adviser.

Meanwhile, Act founder Sir Roger Douglas says he's still trying to decide whether to stand for Parliament again at next year's election.

The veteran politician and former Labour Finance Minister is 73.

Sir Roger backed Heather Roy in this week's deputy leadership challenge which was won by John Boscawen.

- Newstalk ZB