F'mm Mr Peter Horrocks Sir, I think it useful that I offer some clarification regarding forthcoming BBC programming, as referred to in your report "BBC prepares broadside to mark Pope's 25th anniversary" (Sept. 26).
The Panorama documentary, scheduled for October 12 and not October 16, as you suggest, will investigate the impact in poorer countries of the Vatican's doctrines and teaching on contraception, abortion and AIDS. Far from being designed to offend, it will fairly reflect the views of the nuns, priests and bishops, cardinals and Catholic lay people who have been interviewed.
As you know, the intense and sometimes bitter debate over what are frequently referred to as "reproductive rights" has raged in public for a number of years. In making the film, Panorama's team has sought the views of groups on all sides of the debate hut has not collaborated editorially with any of them.
The Kenyon Confronts programme will examine how the Catholic Church is treating victims of past child abuse, as they campaign for redress. It will give voice to those who feel their cases should be heard. Relevant spokespeople for the Church have also been invited to record their opinions for inclusion in the programme.
We believe that the programmes explore issues of serious public interest, and will be both informative and fair.
The BBC takes great care to reflect all faiths in Britain, and plans to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Pope John Paul II across radio, television and online.
Yours faithfully, PETER HORROCKS Head Of Current Affairs, BBC London W12