bishop

An independent review published last week found Mr Welby - the most senior bishop within the Church of England - and other church officers should have formally reported Smyth in 2013 to police in the UK and authorities in South Africa.

The Bishop of Winchester, Philip Mountstephen, told BBC's Newsnight failures in safeguarding should be investigated and "appropriate and proportionate action should be taken with anyone who has failed in safeguarding terms".

Critics included Bishop of Newcastle Helen-Ann Hartley, who said Mr Welby's resignation would "be a very clear indication that a line has been drawn, and that we must move towards independence of safeguarding".

Members will include representatives from around the global Anglican Communion, the General Synod, as well as at least one bishop.

Dr Joanne Grenfell, the Bishop of Stepney and the Church of England's lead safeguarding bishop, said the failings identified in the report into Smyth's abuse meant it was "now necessary for others to take up the baton".