THE public's trust in the finances of the Minster needs to be restored urgently, according to Frank Harris, a member of the Archbishop's Council.

Speaking at a meeting of the York Diocesan Synod, at Easingwold School last night, Mr Harris said the future of the Minster depended on public trust.

He said despite the accounts being open to the public and being properly drawn up and audited, the public's trust in the Minster was very low.

He said: "The financial predicament of the Minster and its future depends quite crucially on public trust, which is currently at a very low level and urgently needs to be restored.

"Hugh Bayley has already called for a public audit of the accounts before any further measures are taken, and Robin Guthrie, the former head of the Charity Commission, has called for an investigation by that body.

"These matters must, I know, be addressed, and sensitively, too, particularly where staff are concerned, and I am sure that this synod will sympathise with Canon Glyn Webster who has picked up this hot potato."

The comments follow criticism of former Dean Raymond Furnell's management style and claims by a former canon, John Toy, that there was misguided extravagance at the Minster and overgenerous perks for staff.

Mr Harris went on to call for charging at the Minster to be continuously reviewed. He said it was too high at £4.50, which was £1 more than the previous suggested voluntary contribution and 50p more than at Canterbury Cathedral.

He also said money could be saved if people were able to use York Cards to get into the Minster rather than issuing a separate card.

The Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, reiterated that there was nothing to hide with regard to the finances and said it was now time to look to the future.

He said he, too, was not happy with the charging situation, but there was no other option.

Updated: 10:21 Friday, July 18, 2003