Downer to stay in London for rest of year

Alexander Downer will remain Australia's high commissioner to the United Kingdom until the end of 2017, ending speculation about the imminent appointment of Attorney-General George Brandis.

Mr Downer, a former foreign minister in the Howard government, took up the London-based three-year role in May 2014.

Senator Brandis told a parliamentary hearing on Wednesday he had not discussed the posting with the prime minister or foreign minister.

Asked if he was seeking appointment to London, Senator Brandis said: "No".