Commenting on the apology in the News of the World on Sunday 13th July, Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor said:

“In January the News of the World published a wholly false story regarding myself and Bishop Howard Tripp.

“At the time and before publication of this claim I informed the News of the World that their allegation was totally false and without foundation.

“I am glad that the News of the World have now finally admitted that their claim was untrue and I welcome the fact that they have apologised without reservation to both Bishop Tripp and myself.

“I am pleased therefore to accept this apology and the confirmation that their allegation had no basis in fact.”