Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Bishop suspended over 'offensive' royal comments

Pa
Tuesday 23 November 2010 09:32 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

A Church of England bishop who made "deeply offensive" comments about the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton was suspended from public ministry today.

The Bishop of London, the Rt Rev Richard Chartres, said he had asked the Rt Rev Pete Broadbent, Bishop of Willesden, to withdraw from public ministry until further notice.

He said he was "appalled" by comments about the marriage posted on Facebook by Bishop Broadbent.

Bishop Broadbent reportedly said Prince William and Miss Middleton's marriage may last only seven years and was said to have referred to the Royal Family as philanderers.

The Bishop of London said in a statement: "I was appalled by the Bishop of Willesden's comments about the forthcoming royal marriage.

"In common with most of the country, I share the joy which the news of the engagement has brought.

"I have now had an opportunity to discuss with Bishop Peter how his comments came to be made and I have noted his unreserved apology.

"Nevertheless, I have asked him to withdraw from public ministry until further notice.

"I have been in touch with St James's Palace to express my own dismay on behalf of the Church."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in