A News Limited report this week suggested Mr Grant came under heavy pressure from Nationals members including Barwon MP Kevin Humphries and Upper Hunter MP George Souris to encourage Andrew Stoner to step down from his portfolios.

Mr Stoner had already announced his intention to retire at the next election for family reasons and stepped down from the leadership to give Mr Grant a smooth transition.

The threat from Nationals MPs was accompanied by a warning Mr Grant would be deposed as leader if he didn't convince Mr Stoner to walk away.

However, Mr Grant rejected the story as a beat up and said he didn't take part in backroom dealings.

"I have never been involved in the dark art of politics. With me what you see is what you get," he said in a statement to the Daily Liberal.

He praised Mr Stoner for the work he did as the Member for Oxley since being elected in 1999 and as the party's NSW leader since 2003.

Mr Stoner revealed at the weekend that he was stepping down because his wife Cathy was suffering from severe depression and he wanted to spend more time helping her recover.

Mr Grant said his colleague should be praised for his dedication to his family and allowed to serve the remainder of his time in politics without rumours.

"This was a decision that Andrew and Cathy made for their family and I respect their decision," the Dubbo MP said.

"Andrew Stoner served this state with dignity and he deserves the same in return."

The departure of Mr Stoner from cabinet has resulted in Mr Grant picking up his portfolios.

He retains his own portfolios of Hospitality, Gaming and Racing and the Arts but also now looks after the crucial ministries of Trade and Investment, Tourism and Major Events and Regional Infrastructure and Services.