Fairfax should apologise: Morrison

A senior government minister is demanding Fairfax newspapers apologise for "outrageous and irresponsible" implications against Treasurer Joe Hockey.

Mr Hockey on Monday sought legal advice over a front-page story which accuses the North Sydney Forum, a campaign fundraising body in his electorate, of offering access to the treasurer in exchange for donations.

Cabinet minister Scott Morrison says it is an "absurd proposition" to suggest Mr Hockey had acted improperly.

"That was not just a beat-up, I think it borders on defamatory," he told Sky News.

Mr Morrison said all political donations within the disclosable limits would be disclosed.

Earlier on Monday, a spokeswoman for Mr Hockey said the treasurer would not let the article distract him from his budget duties ahead of its release next week.

"Accusations made in Fairfax Media today are both offensive and repugnant," his office said in a statement.

No further comment would be made as the matter was now in the hands of lawyers, it was stated.