On David Benson-Pope

This might seem strange, but I actually like David Benson-Pope. While I was working at Parliament I chatted to him a few times as he knows my parents in South Dunedin and he always treated me with respect. So perhaps this tempers my comments.

Now I must admit to being unable to pick up a Womens Day if a) no-one is looking, and b) I've nothing better to do. I can't resist the racy gossip pages on the lives of Hollywood stars and Shortland Street actors.

So I can't pretend not to have had a little snigger at the allegation from Ian Wishart that David Benson-Pope is a member of a BDSM Group called 'Southern Kinks'. I have no idea if it's true, or made up, or possibly a misunderstanding. (Presumably Wishart wouldn't have published it unless he could defend a defamation action.)

But one thing I'm sure of is that if it is true, then good luck to him. It doesn't effect his performance as a Minister and it doesn't effect his performance as an MP. So whatever he does in his private life is not our business, unless he is breaking any laws.

So, I'll have my snigger - but I won't be losing any sleep over these allegations. And I'll say that Wishart shouldn't have published the story, becuase he should be prepared for the day someone brings up some private aspect of his life that he isn't proud of.