THE Bishop of Rochester has been accused of being "pushy and indecisive" in an article in a national newspaper. The feature in The Times yesterday is one of a series of profiles of the candidates for the post of Archbishop of Canterbury.

It describes the Rt Rev Michael Nazir Ali as lacking in warmth and presence and says he is "surprisingly unimpressive". It implies he has no sense of humour and, unlike the other leading contenders for the post, he is lacking in charisma and is uninspirational.

Furthermore, it states that while he found fame as the only bishop able to name the five Spice Girls, he is also very academic and that his teachings often go beyond people's understanding and leave listeners confused about where his actual beliefs lie.

While Bishop Michael himself refused to be drawn into the debate, his friends and colleagues were surprised by the comments and leaped to his defence. Rather than the distant scholar portrayed in the article, they described him as humorous and dedicated family man.

Canon Geoffrey Gray, of Rochester Cathedral, said: "He has got a very good sense of humour. Yes, he is a great scholar and theologian but he is also a dedicated family man. He is very charming and I think he would make a very good Archbishop as about 75 per cent of the Anglican population across the world are black."

Canon Alan Vousden, of St Margaret's Church, Rainham, said: "The Bishop is one among a few who would make a very good Archbishop.

He would bring an international flavour to the position. We need theologians as bishops."

Bookmakers William Hill are also sticking by Bishop Michael. They still have him as favourite for the Archbishop's crown with odds of 13-8.