Possible Clues:

• Forgiveness
• A bishop has the answer - forgiveness
• Washing over - consequently gain forgiveness
• What cleric gives, or a bishop: the answer to a problem
• Forgiveness thus conveyed by ceremonial washing
• Forgiveness of a second-rate answer
• A British answer that wipes out past guilt
• A second-rate answer requires indulgence
• Release sailor - there you have it!
• Prayer of forgiveness