The Archbishop of Canterbury has announced he will step down from his role following a damning report into a prolific child abuser associated with the Church of England.

It emerged last week Justin Welby, 68, failed to act on reports of John Smyth’s “abhorrent” abuse of boys and young men and “several opportunities were missed” to report the abuse to police.

In a statement Mr Welby said: “Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury.”

“It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility” for his role in the response to the abuse.

“I hope this decision makes clear how seriously the Church of England understands the need for change and our profound commitment to creating a safer church,” he said.

“As I step down I do so in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse.”