Police investigate perjury claims in Watson case

7:00 AM

Police are investigating why a secret witness in the Scott Watson murder trial is now saying his evidence was a lie.

Secret Witness A told the trial Watson confessed to the killings while the pair shared a cell at Christchurch's Addington Prison.

But the witness claimed in yesterday's Herald that police pressured him into giving false testimony.

Police Commissioner Rob Robinson said perjury is a serious matter, and police will be making inquiries to find out why the conflicting version of events has emerged.

Investigative journalist Ian Wishart who co-wrote a book on the case 'Ben and Olivia' agrees there should be
an inquiry into the revelations.

Mr Wishart said New Zealanders must have confidence in the justice system, and that police will do their job fairly and effectively.

He said the inquiry cannot be a whitewash.

Scott Watson was convicted of the murders of Blenheim friends Ben Smart and Olivia Hope last year, and sentenced to life in prison. He must serve at least 17 years.

- IRN