A former Bishop of Durham has admitted allegations of misconduct relating to the Church of England's handling of abuse by the late John Smyth.

Rt Rev Paul Butler is one of seven clergy facing disciplinary measures under the Clergy Discipline Measure (CDM) after being heavily criticised in the independent Makin Review into Smyth's abuse. He was asked to “step back from ministry” in 2024 after the review found failings in the way disclosures of abuse were dealt with by senior figures in the Church of England.

It concluded that various people within the Church knew about abuse carried out for decades by Smyth, a Christian camp leader, but didn't act. The review led directly to the resignation of the former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby.

The Church of England said that following Bishop Paul’s admissions, the Court of the Vicar General of York was adjourned and a further hearing will take place at a future date to decide a penalty.

CDM penalties can range from a conditional discharge where no penalty is imposed, to removal from office, resignation by consent and a lifetime ban from ministry.

Bishop Paul, who was a former lead bishop for safeguarding, retired to the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham in 2024.

In the 1970s and 80s Smyth subjected around 130 boys and young men to extreme physical and sexual abuse under the guise of spiritual discipline. He’s believed to be the most prolific serial abuser to be associated with the Church of England.