The Archbishop of Canterbury has resigned, saying in a statement he was "stepping aside in the best interests of the Church of England".In a statement issued by Lambeth Palace, Justin Welby said: "Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury."

The Archbishop of Canterbury has resigned, saying in a statement he was "stepping aside in the best interests of the Church of England".In a statement issued by Lambeth Palace, Justin Welby said: "Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury."