Archbishop of York Faces Calls to Resign Over Handling of Abuse Case

Stephen Cottrell admits regret over decisions to reappoint a priest with a history of abuse, raising questions about his leadership in safeguarding reforms.

David Tudor, a priest with a history of sexual abuse allegations, was reappointed to senior roles in 2013 and 2018 under Stephen Cottrell's tenure as Bishop of Chelmsford.
Tudor had previously been banned from ministry for five years and was prohibited from being alone with children, yet continued in his role until 2020.
Cottrell has acknowledged that his handling of the case 'could have been different' and expressed regret but has resisted calls to resign.
Victims and Church leaders, including the Bishops of Newcastle and Gloucester, have questioned Cottrell’s moral authority and ability to lead safeguarding reforms.
The controversy comes as Cottrell is set to temporarily assume the responsibilities of the Archbishop of Canterbury following Justin Welby’s resignation over a separate abuse scandal.