Bishop of Lincoln Christopher Lowson suspended from office

The Bishop of Lincoln, Christopher Lowson, has been suspended from office following alleged failures to adequately safeguard children and vulnerable people.

Archbishop of Canterbury the Most Rev Justin Welby said his suspension of Bishop Christopher Lowson was a "neutral act", but added: "If these matters are found to be proven, I consider that the bishop would present a significant risk of harm by not adequately safeguarding children and vulnerable people."

The Archbishop stressed that there had been no allegation that Bishop Lowson has committed abuse of a child or vulnerable adult.

In a statement, he said: "Following information provided by the police, I have suspended the Bishop of Lincoln Christopher Lowson from office, having obtained the consent of the Bishops of Birmingham and Worcester."

The Archbishop added: "It should be noted that suspension is a neutral act and nothing further can be said at this stage while matters are investigated.I ask for prayers for all affected by this matter."

The Bishop of Lincoln said in a statement issued by the Church of England:

The Bishop of Grimsby the Rt Rev David Court will take on leadership of the diocese.