Official statements from the Church of England or major news outlets

Archbishop Welby Urged to Resign by Bishop Hartley Over Cover-Up of Smyth's Abuse of Over 130 Boys

Nov 11, 2024, 01:31 PM

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby is facing mounting pressure to resign following a report that concluded the Church of England covered up sexual abuse by John Smyth QC, one of its most prolific abusers. Senior clergy, including the Bishop of Newcastle Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, have called for Welby's resignation, citing his failure to prevent or properly investigate Smyth's violent and sexual abuse of over 130 boys. The report found that Smyth's abuse, which spanned decades, was an 'open secret' and that opportunities to expose his crimes as early as 2013 were missed. Welby has acknowledged he 'considered' resigning in light of the report but has so far remained in his position.