17 Oct 2011

Justice Minister pressured for answer on Watson mercy plea

5:46 am on 17 October 2011

Justice Minister Simon Power has been told his conscience will suffer if he leaves office not having dealt with convicted double-murderer Scott Watson's final bid for freedom.

Watson was jailed for killing Ben Smart and Olivia Hope, who disappeared in the Marlborough Sounds on New Year's Day in 1998.

Watson's application for the Royal Prerogative of Mercy was filed three years ago.

Mr Power is yet to give a formal response, although he has indicated he plans to do so before leaving Parliament at the election.

Keith Hunter, who wrote a book about Watson's trial, says Watson has phoned from prison three times in recent months, anxious about the slow progress.

In a letter to the minister Mr Hunter has called for action and told Mr Power his reputation, self-respect and conscience will suffer if he walks away from Watson's case.

Mr Power's office says he has not received the letter.