Church statement on Bishop George Bell

11 December 2015

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From the Bishop of Horsham

Sir, — In response to correspondence and articles in the Church Times, I would like to emphasise that the decision to issue a statement about the settlement of a claim against Bishop George Bell was an agonising one taken only after a long process.

We have always affirmed and treasured his principled stand in the Second World War, and his contribution to peace remains extraordinary. We also have a duty and commitment to listen to survivors of abuse, to guard their confidentiality, and to protect their interests. As our statement makes clear, a thorough process of evaluation took place. Had we not published — and others would have — we would also rightly have been criticised.

MARK HORSHAM
Bishop’s House, 21 Guildford Road
Horsham
West Sussex RH12 1LU

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