Bishop of Liverpool quits after sexual assault and harassment allegations

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Bishop Perumbalath said the National Safeguarding Team found no concerns about his operational safeguarding experience The Church of England has faced a storm over safeguarding failures, including the resignation of Justin Welby as Archbishop of Canterbury over his handling of a separate case. Bishop Perumbalath said in a statement: “Having sought the permission of His Majesty the King, I have today taken the decision to retire from active ministry in the Church of England.” He said he had consistently maintained that he had not done anything wrong. “As the Church of England have made clear in their written statements over the past 48 hours responding to these false claims, the National Safeguarding Team found no concerns about my operational safeguarding experience and recommended some development work for me as I took on additional strategic safeguarding responsibilities – which is commonly the case for new diocesan bishops. “This rush to judgment and my trial by media has made my position untenable due to the impact it will have on the Diocese of Liverpool and the wider church whilst we await further reviews and next steps.” His statement went on: “I do not wish this story to become a distraction for this incredible diocese and its people whom it has been an honour and joy to serve.” Archbishop Cottrell said he respected Bishop Perumbalath’s decision, adding: “My thoughts and prayers continue to be with all those who have been affected by this situation.” The Diocese of Liverpool said: “This is a deeply painful situation, and we hold all concerned in our prayers.”