Former National Party leader Don Brash was "not unhappy" about losing the 2005 election because it meant he didn't have to work with NZ First.

"Winston Peters really is a nutter," he is quoted as saying by a United States Embassy staff member in a November 2005 diplomatic cable. The comments come in an intelligence briefing to Washington after Peters' first big trip as foreign minister.

Brash said yesterday: "I don't recall saying that but it doesn't really surprise me. I certainly don't have a very high regard for Mr Peters." The disregard appeared mutual. Peters said Brash had little experience or credibility as a politician. "He lost the unloseable election."

ENDS