independent.co.uk
Archbishop Welby Faces Resignation Calls Over Child Abuse Cover-up
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby faces calls to resign for failing to report child abuse allegations, leading to a cover-up that allowed decades of abuse to continue.
English
United Kingdom
UkInvestigationScandalAbuseChurchCover-Up
Church Of EnglandGeneral SynodAnglican CommunionHampshire PoliceChannel 4
Justin WelbyJohn Smyth
- How many victims did John Smyth's abuse affect?
- John Smyth, the perpetrator, abused approximately 30 boys and young men in the UK and 85 in Africa over five decades. His abuse continued until his death in 2018, despite the Church's knowledge of his actions.
- What is Archbishop Welby's response to the calls for his resignation?
- Archbishop Welby has acknowledged his failure to act decisively but has refused to resign, citing his lack of awareness of the allegations before 2013. His office has reiterated its horror at the abuse and its commitment to creating a safer church.
- When did the Church of England first become aware of John Smyth's abuse?
- The independent Makin Review revealed that the Church of England was aware of the abuse as early as 1982, but actively covered up the findings of an internal investigation. This cover-up allowed the abuser, John Smyth, to continue his crimes for decades.
- What is the main reason behind the calls for Archbishop Welby's resignation?
- The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is facing calls to resign after failing to report child abuse allegations to the police in 2013. An independent review found that his inaction allowed abuse to continue for years.
- What is the current status of the petition calling for Archbishop Welby's resignation?
- A petition calling for Archbishop Welby's resignation has gathered over 1,800 signatures. Members of the General Synod, the Church's national assembly, argue that he has lost their confidence due to his handling of the situation.