New evidence in Benson-Pope affair

Benson-Pope considering his options after damning new allegations about his conduct as a teacher- new evidence

26 February 2006
Cabinet Minister David Benson-Pope says he is considering his legal options, after damning new allegations about his conduct as a teacher.

Investigate Magazine says it has been gathering evidence from young women who were students at Bayfield High School in Dunedin in the late 1990s.

Their complaints relate to Mr Benson-Pope's alleged conduct on school camps.

The magazine says it has spoken to pupils who claim Benson-Pope watched schoolgirls while they showered.

It is alleged he also walked uninvited into a dormitory, where up to 25 girls aged 14 and 15 were changing.

Another former student told the magazine she was slapped on the thigh with a ruler, which left a red mark.

Mr Benson-Pope has released a statement calling the claims "a nonsense".

He says anyone with a genuine concern about his conduct should raise it with the appropriate authorities.

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