ANYONE fortunate enough to have spent any time with Dr Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, knows him to be an extraordinarily intelligent, articulate and erudite man.

There is little doubt, however, that he has been remarkably naïve in calling for some elements of Sharia law to be incorporated into the UK legislature.

We do not believe he has been naïve in opening a debate on the issue, more in not understanding the impact his words would have and the way they would be interpreted by the more reactionary elements of our national media.

There have been some disgraceful headlines in some newspapers over the weekend and the reactions they have inspired, including catcalls at - of all things - a memorial service do little to show this country in a good light.

Dr Williams should not resign over this issue but we fear his hand may be forced by the hysterical reaction to his words.

It would perhaps do us all good to read the actual words Dr Williams said in his speech last week rather than rely on the interpretations published by most of our mainstream media.

He has not said that the more extreme elements of Sharia law should be incorporated into our system.

Dr Williams has said there may be a place for elements of Sharia law governing issues like divorce and finance within our system.

We may not agree with what he has said but he has the right to air his views and to call for a debate.