WE might not often think of bishops as big spenders, but a Church of England report out today, which for the first time itemises bishops' expenses, shows that some prelates are more profligate than others.

Fortunately, the Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, emerges as one of the more modest spenders, preferring a touch of Yorkshire prudence in managing his affairs.

This brings to mind a mental picture of Dr Hope sitting in Bishopthorpe Palace with the heating low while thinking of Mr Micawber, the Dickens character who was always struggling with his pennies.

Updated: 11:12 Wednesday, December 12, 2001