Can shoplifting really be justified? Why violating civil law is not always immoral

The Church of England's Archdeacon of York Richard Seed has issued a statement on their website in response to the controversy surrounding comments made by priest Tim Jones suggesting people shoplift when in a desperate situation

The statement, dated December 22, read:

• Statement on shoplifting
• Fr Tim Jones, a vicar from York, has been in the media recently, advocating shoplifting if people are in desparate circumstances.
• The Ven. Richard Seed, Archdeacon of York said, "The Church of England does not advise anyone to shoplift, or break the law in any way. Fr Tim Jones is raising important issues about the difficulties people face when benefits are not forthcoming, but shoplifting is not the way to overcome these difficulties. There are many organisations and charities working with people in need, and the Citizens' Advice Bureau is a good first place to call." (more)