Howard: "Pell's alright"

Stem cell research legislation has passed the lower house in NSW as the discussion over the remarks of George Pell (and Barry Hickey) continues. Arthur Vandelay and Bruce have already said what needs to be said about this, but I've found John Howard's take on the whole issue most unsurprising:

Prime Minister John Howard says he does not believe the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney, Cardinal George Pell, has interfered improperly with a vote in the New South Wales Parliament to expand stem cell research.

Mr Howard says Cardinal Pell is just articulating the position of the Church and he is entitled to speak his mind.

"I think it's exaggerating the situation to say that he purported to direct people," he said.

"Now the question of whether he should or should not have done that is entirely a matter for him and a matter for the Catholic Church.

"In the end church leaders, if they believe something, they are entitled to put their view."

Pure Howard. A quick side-step followed by an answer to a question he wasn't asked. "Church leaders are entitled to put their views" John? Wow! We've all been wondering where you stand on that issue.

George wasn't trying to direct people? Please John, tell us you don't really believe that. If "Vote like this or go to Hell" isn't an attempt to direct someone then what is?