Ambassador to France snubbed!

Australia's ambassador to France offered his resignation after being snubbed by Tony Abbott as he arrived in Paris. The ambassador, Stephen Brady, was on the airport tarmac with his partner of 32 years, Peter Stephens, waiting to meet the incoming plane around 7pm Paris time.

The prime minister's travelling party sent an instruction that Mr Stephens should not take part in the greeting but should wait in the car.

It is understood that no explanation was given.

The ambassador, a career diplomat and formerly the official secretary to two governors-general, refused the instruction.

Word of the incident, described privately by Canberra officials as "bizarre" and "extraordinary", spread quickly through diplomatic circles.

A spokesman for Mr Abbott did not deny that it had occurred but said: "The prime minister was very happy to be met by Ambassador Brady and his partner when he arrived in Paris last month."

Mr Brady later offered his resignation to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

It is understood that his resignation was rejected. Mr Brady still serves as ambassador. He declined to comment.

In the wake of the story, Opposition Leader Bill Shorten called on Mr Abbott to explain the incident.

Read the full sotry at: canberratimes.com.au