New investigation into late Bishop George Bell as CofE says it has received ‘fresh information’
by James Macintyre, Christian Today:
The Church of England today said that it had received ‘fresh information’ concerning the late Bishop George Bell, with Christian Today understanding that a new complainant has come forward following publicity about allegations against the bishop.
The Church of England was criticised in the independent Carlile report published in December for a ‘rush to judgment’ in its handling of separate allegations against Bishop Bell, the former Bishop of Chichester who died in 1958, made by a woman known as ‘Carol’. The report by Lord Carlile said that although the Church acted in good faith, its processes were deficient and it failed to give proper consideration to the rights of the accused.
In 2015, the Church of England issued a formal public apology and paid damages of £16,800 to ‘Carol’, plus legal costs.
The fresh information does not relate to Carol, Christian Today understands.
‘The Church of England’s National Safeguarding Team has received fresh information concerning Bishop George Bell,’ said a statement from the Church of England’s safeguarding team today. ‘Sussex Police have been informed and we will work collaboratively with them. This new information was received following the publication of the Carlile Review, and is now being considered through the Core Group and in accordance with Lord Carlile’s recommendations.
Related Posts
Tags
Share This
