"One of the most powerful defences the media can offer for controversial actions is, of course, public interest"

This quote by Rowan D. Williams suggests that the media can use public interest as a powerful defence for questionable actions. This suggests that the media can use public interest as a validation for their actions, even if those actions are seen as controversial. This could be seen as a method for the media to safeguard themselves from criticism or reaction. It suggests that the media can utilize public interest as a method to describe why they are doing something, even if it is seen as controversial. This could be viewed as a method for the media to protect their reputation and reliability. Ultimately, this quote suggests that public interest can be used as an effective defence for controversial actions taken by the media.