Month after month, I see first hand countless shoplifters as they face Justice in the Magistrates Court. As our bench contemplates the best course of sentencing by reference to the sentencing guidelines there is no mention under mitigating factors of " severe poverty" as one we should consider.
However, I always wonder about the life history that has led the convicted individual to go into a large store to steal, often for money for drugs, alcohol or food. Never does my compassion and sadness lead me to conclude that their crime is justified. Therefore, news of the Yorkshire vicar's conclusion that to shoplift, in moderation from a large store is permissible leaves me mystified.“My advice, as a Christian priest, is to shoplift,”
I can see how, in areas of deprivation, with a very poor congregation set amidst a culture which prizes so much consumer wealth that a vicar could be moved, momentarily, to dream up radical redistributive measures. But I cannot grasp how anyone could then justify it from the Bible and then preach it from the pulpit. Rev Tim Jones, epitomizes the spirit of the age. By a sentimental assessment of a human state he has drawn the wrong conclusion and then sought to back it up with a muddle-headed application of Biblical teaching."Thou shalt not steal "is pretty unambiguous to me.
The headlines from this sermon epitomize the state of our society. Everything is relative, no absolutes exist anymore. Of course one feels compassion for the poor and needy, especially at Christmas time when we are aware of our blessings. However, a quick fix of a few extra stolen items of food will not put right the problem nor will it bring lasting relief to the poor thieves who will face justice whilst Rev Tim Jones enjoys his turkey in the Rectory.
Poverty is what drives me to engage in politics and policy making. Working towards a society that cares better for the poor and needy and addresses the deeper causes of that poverty is our first responsibility. However, if we lose the basic moral frameworks and blur the line between right and wrong we won't solve the problem - we will end up with a society where anything goes... if it feels good - why not do it... if you want it...have it ... and why wait!
So I am sorry Rev Jones - I thoroughly disagree with your conclusions though I share the compassion for the poor. A soft heart is good - but a fuzzy head is dangerous for society, for the taxpayer and for the poor shoplifter who you have now set up for a spell inside.