Brandis met with Downer on London trip

George Brandis says there was no discussion with Alexander Downer about replacing him as high commissioner to the UK on a recent trip to London.

The attorney-general arrived back in Australia on Monday for an estimates hearing in Canberra after nearly a week in Europe.

Senator Brandis visited London and Paris for a number of meetings and events, including a function at the high commissioner's residence.

It's been rumoured that he is in line to replace Mr Downer or could be offered a diplomatic or judicial post before the next election.

Asked by Labor senator Sam Dastyari whether that speculation came up in conversation with Mr Downer, seriously or in jest, Senator Brandis said: "No".

"It was all business, as these trips invariably are," he said.

He noted that not one journalist who had written a story about the potential move had asked him about it.

Mr Downer finishes his appointment next year.

Senator Brandis later said he also hadn't had any discussions with the prime minister about replacing Mr Downer or a future judicial or diplomatic appointment.