Scott Watson interview given approval

  • 28/08/2015
Scott Watson (3 News)
Scott Watson (3 News)

By 3 News online staff

Scott Watson's father remains optimistic his son will be cleared of killing two Marlborough teenagers.

Approval has been granted for a journalist to interview Scott Watson, the man convicted of the murders of Olivia Hope and Ben Smart, following a court battle.

Watson invited North & South journalist Mike White to interview him inside Christchurch's Rolleston Prison over claims of a miscarriage of justice relating to his conviction over the disappearances of the couple on New Year's Day 1998.

Chris Watson hopes the interview will help convince people of his son's innocence.

"If anyone will stop and look at the evidence, you can't help but think that. It will be really great if he could have his life back, it would have been even better if could have it while his mother was still alive."

The Corrections Department had continually blocked the request, saying it was trying to protect the interest of the victims' families.

The case went to the High Court, with Justice Rachel Dunningham saying the department should reconsider its position.

It has, with deputy chief executive of corporate services Vincent Arbuckle approving the interview.

However, there will be a number of conditions imposed relating to the security of the prison and the interests of the victims.

Watson, 44, was denied parole last month and has always maintained his innocence.

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