Scientists and artists rated top for honesty

Scientists are rated as more trustworthy than the clergy, according to a public opinion survey.

Almost two-thirds (62 per cent) of those questioned said they believed politicians were the least likely profession to tell the truth, with journalists in second place at 30 per cent.

But the research showed scientists were thought to be the most honest, with 0.25 per cent believing they are least likely to tell the truth, followed by artists at two per cent and members of the clergy at 5.75 per cent.

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The online poll of 425 UK people found 15 per cent admitted lying every day and 30 per cent every week – with six per cent of people claiming never to lie.

The most common reason given for lying was to protect other people’s feelings, at 87 per cent, with 58 per cent of people saying they lied to avoid confrontation.

More than one in five – or 22 per cent – of those questioned said they lied to escape blame, 18 per cent admitted lying to get their own way and 15 per cent to get on at work.

The survey was conducted to mark the launch of the Westminster Abbey Institute, a new body examining religious, ethical and public policy issues.

Former Home Secretary Jack Straw will join journalist and historian Sir Max Hastings, medic and broadcaster Lord Winston and poet Wendy Cope at an inaugural debate for the institute.