Official statement from the Church of England

Justin Welby Urged to Resign Over Cover-Up of John Smyth's Abuse of Over 100 Boys

Nov 11, 2024, 10:40 PM

Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, is facing mounting pressure to resign following a damning report revealing that the Church of England covered up physical and sexual abuse by the late barrister John Smyth QC, who is believed to have harmed over 100 boys and young men. The abuses, described as an "open secret," were first reported by Channel 4 News in 2017. Welby has apologized for the Church's failure, but critics, including senior clergy and victims like Mark Stibbe, say his position is "untenable" due to his failure to act when allegations emerged as early as 2013. A petition calling for Welby's resignation has gathered over 10,000 signatures. Political leaders, such as Labour leader Keir Starmer, have also refused to back Welby, stating, "These are horrific allegations," and noting that victims were "failed very, very badly."