Dean Of St Paul's Cathedral To Resign

The Dean of St Paul's Cathedral is resigning amid criticism of the handling of protesters camping outside the church.

The Rt Rev Graeme Knowles announced his intention to resign from his post after informing the Chapter and Bishop of London on Sunday night.

He has removed himself from operations with immediate effect and plans to submit his resignation to the Queen later on Monday.

In light of his resignation, the Bishop of London has been asked to help with the Occupy London protests outside the cathedral.

In a statement, the Dean said: "The past fortnight has been a testing time for the Chapter and for me personally.

"It has become increasingly clear to me that, as criticism of the cathedral has mounted in the press, media and in public opinion, my position as Dean of St Paul's was becoming untenable.

"In order to give the opportunity for a fresh approach to the complex and vital questions facing St Paul's, I have thought it best to stand down as dean, to allow new leadership to be exercised.

"I do this with great sadness, but I now believe that I am no longer the right person to lead the Chapter of this great cathedral.

"This has not been an easy decision for me to make, at this stage in my ministry, as I have very much enjoyed being at St Paul's as dean."

He added: "In recent days, since the arrival of the protesters' camp outside the cathedral, we have all been put under a great deal of strain and have faced what would appear to be some insurmountable issues.

"I hope and pray that under new leadership these issues might continue to be addressed and that there might be a swift and peaceful resolution."