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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Angus Thompson and PA Reporters

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby apologises for ‘hurt’ after backlash over ‘tone deaf’ final speech

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby delivers his final speech to the House of Lords on Thursday - (PA)

The Archbishop of Canterbury has issued an apology over his final speech in the House of Lords after leading figures in the Church accused him of making light of serious safeguarding failures in the institution.

Six bishops have issued public statements criticising Justin Welby’s valedictory address on Thursday, with three in charge of safeguarding for the Church of England writing to victims, explaining that his words were “utterly insensitive” and “mistaken and wrong”.

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