Lena Dunham says that she warned the Clinton campaign about Harvey Weinstein's reputation as an alleged sex offender and "rapist".

A new New York Times piece investigates the powerful relationship that the producer had that helped maintain his reputation. Hillary and Bill Clinton were among the names featured in the article, with Weinstein having hosted fundraisers in their honour and having donated money to their campaigns.

In March last year, Dunham claims that she informed Kristina Schake, the campaign's deputy communications director, about "disturbing" reports she had heard both directly and secondhand from other actresses about Weinstein.

"I just want you to let you know that Harvey's a rapist and this is going to come out at some point," Dunham said she told Schake. She recalled adding, "I think it's a really bad idea for him to host fund-raisers and be involved because it's an open secret in Hollywood that he has a problem with sexual assault."

Schake was apparently been surprised by Dunham's admission, and said she would tell Robby Mook, the campaign manager. The actress also told Adrienne Elrod, a spokeswoman for Mrs. Clinton who was leading efforts with celebrity campaigners.

Both Schake and Elrod deny that Dunham used the term 'rape'. Dunham does not believe her warning ever reached Clinton, who said in a statement last October that she was "shocked and appalled by the revelations".

Clinton's communications director, Nick Merrill, denied knowledge of the Weinstein claims.

"We were shocked when we learned what he'd done. It's despicable behaviour, and the women that have come forward have shown enormous courage. As to claims about a warning, that's something staff wouldn't forget," he said in a statement. "Only [Dunham] can answer why she would tell them instead of those who could stop him."

Weinstein has denied all non-consensual sex claims made against him. "Mr Weinstein denies allegations of non-consensual sex," his representative said. "Mr Weinstein has further confirmed that there were never any acts of retaliation against any women for refusing his advances."

From: Harper's BAZAAR UK