10. The Rev Gary Nelson asked -

(a) Is Synod able to obtain or have the means of obtaining, the actual readership of the Southern Cross rather than how many are distributed?

(b) What is the cost for publication of the Southern Cross newspaper and quarterly?

(c) What means does Synod have to evaluate the changes in style and production of the Southern Cross?

(d) Does Synod have appropriate means to express dissatisfaction with Southern Cross other than in reducing the allocation of money in the Appropriations Ordinance?

To which the Archbishop replied -

I am informed the answers are as follows -

(a) No - the actual readership of Southern Cross Newspaper is not known. Parishes in the diocese are contacted in order to maintain as accurate as possible a distribution base with minimal wastage. Approximately one third of all parishes have so far been contacted, and current estimates are that around 90% of the copies distributed are being read. Many single copies are read by more than one person.

(b) The budgeted production cost for Southern Cross Quarterly and Southern Cross Newspaper is $305,000 for 1995, including printing, distribution, salaries and all on-costs, approximately one third of which will be recovered from advertising and subscription income. In 1996, the amount of costs so recovered is projected to be significantly higher.

(c) Readers' surveys are conducted regularly, and the results are considered by the Anglican Media Council. Consequential changes are made whenever necessary.

(d) Yes. The Anglican Media Council governs all the work of Anglican Media, and gladly considers all matters brought to its attention, whether of support or of criticism. The Publisher and Managing Editor are also available to discuss matters relating the publications.