The head of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales has cited The Daily Telegraph’s investigation into MPs’ expenses as an example of the media acting for the good of society. But the Most Rev Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, also warned newspapers not to criticise everyone in institutions that are “under suspicion”, in remarks that will be taken as a reference to the clergy child abuse scandal.
He praised the leaders’ debate held by Citizens UK in Westminster Methodist Hall on Monday as the most interesting moment in the election campaign, as he claimed that religious believers will have a “crucial part” to play in renewing the country.
Archbishop Nichols made his comments in a lecture for World Communications Day on Tuesday night, which focused on polling day and the “enormous power” of television and the press.
Discussing the first-ever televised leaders’ debates, he said: “When we come face to face with individuals, then we can gauge again the manner and extent of our trust of them. The political institutions as such can hardly gain our confidence unless the individuals within them do so.
“The media, of course, play a crucial role in all of this. They unpack the party manifestos and explain policy to all in society. It was the media which brought to light the abuses of the parliamentary expenses system which has done so much to weaken trust.”
The Archbishop said that a new Parliament could help restore trust to society and its institutions, then moved on to consider leadership in the media, saying: “There is a duty incumbent on the media to have an eye for the common good. This will be readily recognised. Indeed it is well served when actual and hidden abuses, such as the expenses crisis, are brought to light.
“But difficult judgments have also to be made as to when a line is crossed – or if not crossed then at least blurred – between exposing the failures of some, on the one hand, and denigrating everyone associated with the institution on the other. The media, I would suggest, have a role and a responsibility in sustaining trust where that is justified and in portraying generosity and the spirit of service, even when it is to be found in an institution which is at the same time under suspicion.”
Following allegations of sex abuse committed by some priests in several countries, and of cover-ups of their crimes, the entire Catholic church and Pope Benedict XVI himself have faced strong criticism in some quarters.
Archbishop Nichols said the church would work with “whoever is forming the Government” after the election, concluding: “Our society is, I believe, going to have to get beyond the limits imposed by the old belief that self-interest is the only effective motivator.
“Properly understood, properly approached, religious belief is one of the most powerful ways in which good will is deepened and unlocked in the people of this country. It has a crucial part to play.”
SIC: TCUK