Asbestos has been found the site of the State Government's new Executive Building, forcing construction to be suspended at what is one of Brisbane's most controversial building projects.

The potentially deadly fibre was discovered on Monday at the base of the building on 1 William Street, in metal skirting which came from China

It has since been removed and work is expected to resume on Tuesday.

The State Government demanded a report into the incident even though it will only be a tenant in the privately owned and developed highrise.

It was commissioned by the former Liberal National Party government in 2012 to house public servants, replacing the current Executive Building at 100 George Street.

The building contractor has been contacted for comment.