Bishop of Liverpool Faces Calls to Resign Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

Senior Church of England leaders are calling for the resignation of John Perumbalath, the Bishop of Liverpool, following accusations of sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct.

A woman alleges that between 2013 and 2019, Perumbalath forcibly kissed her, touched her breasts, and made inappropriate comments. Another complainant, a female bishop, has also accused him of harassment. Channel 4 News first reported these claims.

Six senior figures within the Diocese of Liverpool, including the Dean of Liverpool and multiple archdeacons, issued a joint statement saying Perumbalath’s position is “untenable” and calling for a full investigation. They also urged him to step aside while inquiries take place.

Perumbalath denies the allegations, stating they occurred in public settings with others present. He asserts that police and church safeguarding investigations found no basis for further action.

The accusations stem from his time as Bishop of Bradwell in Essex. The Church previously dismissed the female bishop’s complaint due to its one-year reporting limit, sparking criticism of church leadership.

Concerns about a cover-up have been raised, particularly regarding interim Church of England leader Stephen Cottrell, who allegedly knew of the claims before Perumbalath’s appointment in Liverpool. Cottrell himself faces calls to resign over past mishandling of abuse cases.

A Church spokesperson stated safeguarding protocols were followed and that Perumbalath had engaged in the recommended “learning outcomes.” However, pressure continues to mount for transparency and accountability.