Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby announced his resignation amid a significant abuse scandal involving the late attorney John Smyth, who was linked to numerous cases of abuse within the Church of England. An independent review criticized Welby for not reporting Smyth's actions to authorities once informed in 2013. Consequently, Welby will conclude his official duties by January 6, 2024, and will be succeeded temporarily by Archbishop Stephen Cottrell. The scandal has reignited discussions about accountability and safeguarding within the church, raising questions about the systemic failures of leadership.