Ducros was at the centre of a storm since last Thursday when it was reported she referred to U.S. President George W. Bush as a "moron" during a chat with a reporter at the NATO Summit in Prague.

In an exchange of letters yesterday, Ducros told the PM that after reflection over the weekend, "It is very much apparent to me that the controversy will make it impossible for me to do my job."

Chretien replied, "As you take your leave, you can be proud of the fact not only that you have filled one of the most senior positions ever held by a woman in a Prime Minister's Office, but above all, of the exemplary manner in which you have carried out your duties."