Just six  months after he was named a conservative senator Mike Duffy  was discussing  in an email  what he described as  his ‘expanded role’ with the party and wondering how  he could ‘get a staff, a car and more resources.’

A published report of an email exchange says Duffy also wanted to become a minister without portfolio.

The email dated July 2009, appears to be sent from Duffy’s private email account to an unidentified Conservative Party insider.

The message  asks whether he should have a separate meeting with “Marjory,” in apparent reference to the government Senate Leader Marjory LeBreton. He adds, “Should I request a one on one with Stephen? To what end?” He signs off, “Mike, at home.”

On Tuesday, a Senate committee voted to refer the matter of Duffy’s expense claims to the RCMP.   Reports indicate that Duffy at times claimed Senate expenses while he was appearing at election campaign events.