Former MP Roger McClay admits charity fraud

Former National MP and Children's Commissioner Roger McClay has admitted to ripping off charities by charging them for flights which were paid for by the taxpayer.

McClay pleaded guilty in Auckland District Court today to three charges of fraud relating to double dipping on flights taken over the last three years, the NZ Herald website reported.

McClay, aged 65, admitted billing $11,800 to the non-profit organisation Keep New Zealand Beautiful, which he chaired, and World Vision for flights the taxpayer had already paid $12,887.

As a former MP McClay was entitled to a travel subsidy of 90 percent on 12 personal domestic flights every year.

McClay, who originally faced 56 charges, pleaded guilty to three charges related to the double dipping and the other charges were dropped.

Ben Lightfoot, vice chairman of Keep New Zealand Beautiful, told TVNZ the organisation was disappointed with McClay's actions.

McClay spent 15 years in Parliament and was Minister of Youth Affairs and Associate Minister of Education and Social Welfare before leaving in 1996.

He was then appointed the Commissioner for Children, and in 2005 was made a companion of the Queen's Service Order for his public service and his contribution to the welfare of children.

He later became chairman of Keep NZ Beautiful and last year took up a position at the NZ Spinal Trust.

McClay will sentenced next week.

- NZPA