Should he be arrested?
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, leader of the Church of England, announced his resignation in response to a scandal involving abuse cover-up allegations tied to John Smyth, a prominent figure accused of abusing over 100 young men during church-affiliated camps in the 1970s and 1980s. Welby acknowledged receiving permission from King Charles III to step down, emphasizing that the decision aligns with the Church’s commitment to making amends and protecting its members. His resignation follows the findings of the Makin Report, which highlighted a prolonged failure to properly address Smyth’s abuses and prevent further harm.
Welby expressed deep regret over the church’s handling of the abuse cases, admitting that when he was first informed of the situation in 2013, he believed notifying the police would suffice. However, the delay in justice and the recurring trauma faced by victims led him to take responsibility for the Church’s failures from 2013 to 2024. He hoped his resignation would demonstrate the Church of England’s dedication to prioritizing safety and instilling necessary reforms, acknowledging that survivors and the public need clear evidence of change.
The Makin Report detailed Smyth’s extensive abuse and how reports from victims and concerned clergy members were overlooked or inadequately addressed, allowing the abuse to persist. Smyth, who died in 2018, was in Zimbabwe awaiting extradition to the United Kingdom when the full extent of his actions began to emerge. The report also pointed out systemic failures within the Church that hindered accountability and failed to protect vulnerable members effectively.
Welby’s resignation comes amid public demands for accountability. A petition signed by over 13,000 people called for his departure, arguing that change at the highest levels was essential for the Church’s credibility, victim support, and the prevention of future abuses. Welby pledged to continue meeting with survivors and deferred other safeguarding responsibilities until a complete risk assessment could be conducted.
By stepping down, Welby aims to reinforce the message that the Church is committed to learning from these past failures and to a future centered on safety and healing. He hopes his resignation will help restore faith in the Church’s mission and reestablish its focus on compassionate and protective leadership.