Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has resigned following the release of an independent report exposing the Church of England’s mishandling of sexual abuse allegations involving John Smyth, a barrister.
The report, known as the Makin review, revealed that the church concealed abuse committed by Smyth, leading to public calls for Welby’s resignation.
In a statement, Welby expressed remorse, acknowledging the church’s prolonged “conspiracy of silence” and his failure to take decisive action when informed of the allegations in 2013. After receiving “gracious permission” from King Charles, Welby decided to step down, citing the need to take “personal and institutional responsibility” for the delayed response.
The report indicated that Smyth, who was never formally brought to justice due to his 2018 death, subjected victims to severe abuse, including physical, sexual, psychological, and spiritual harm.
