An interim report into the appointment of John Barilaro to a plum overseas posting has found it had all the hallmarks of a “jobs for the boys” position.

The Upper House inquiry was launched into how the former deputy premier managed to land the high-paying New York trade role last year.

It’s found his proposal to turn the role into a ministerial appointment wasn’t reasonable and it created the vacancy he then applied for.

The report also says former trade minister Stuart Ayres “wasn’t at arm’s length from the process” and discussions he had with Mr Barilaro about the job were inappropriate and showed poor judgement.

2GB Political Reporter Clinton Maynard told Ray Hadley, Liberal and National Party representatives are describing the findings as a “politically motivated hit-job” staged in the lead-up to an election.

Press PLAY below to hear Ray and Clinton breakdown the finding

Image: Getty/Martin Ollamen