The role of parliamentary secretary, not usually one of the more demanding jobs on Parliament Hill, is often called into question.

But Government House Leader Peter Van Loan has found a new use for his — as a distraction.

Van Loan's parliamentary secretary is Regina MP Tom Lukiwski who is currently under fire for homophobic remarks he once made.

While Lukiwski was surrounded by journalists and offering his apologies for the remarks, only recently discovered on an earlier video, Van Loan raced behind the mob to get to his office — without having to answer any pesky questions on his own on the matter.

Unfortunately, Lukiwski's apology didn't last as long as Van Loan hoped and he found himself trapped in his office, with his only route back to the House laced with straggling journalists.

After about 20 minutes and with only one camera crew and journalist still waiting for him, Van Loan's staff devised a plan to spring him.

His director of communications, Mike White, held open the front door, as though waiting for his boss to come through, while Van Loan bolted out the back one.

Alas, Van Loan was spotted and had to endure being asked if he would keep Lukiwski on as parliamentary secretary, the person who stands in for the minister when he is unavailable.

Van Loan responded only with a gruff snort over his shoulder as he crossed into the House where the security guards protect him, from journalists at least.