Clinton's visit an expensive exercise

Former US President Bill Clinton during his last visit to New Zealand in 1999. Herald file picture

There is concern the cost of security for Bill Clinton's speaking trip to New Zealand this week will make a dent in the Police budget.

The former US president will be in the country to speak to an audience paying more than 1500 dollars each for the privilege of attending the seminar.

While Mr Clinton will be better off by several hundred thousand dollars, the taxpayer would normally pick up the bill for his Police security measures.

Police Association president Greg O'Connor said the Clinton visit is just one occasion where event organisers are effectively being subsidised.

Mr O'Connor said now might be a good time to discuss whether such organisers should be chipping in to help cover security costs. He added there is a big difference between an official visit on state business, and a private trip for cash such as this.

The organiser of Mr Clinton's speaking visit said the cost of providing security for the former US president was never discussed with him and he is happy to pick up the tab. He said all Police need do is send him the bill.

Other speakers at the seminar include former Disney boss Michael Eisner and Hewlett-Packard's Carly Fiorina.

- NEWSTALK ZB