His duties are being carried out by Auxiliary Bishop Tom Williams and retired Auxiliary Bishop Vincent Malone.

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The Right Reverend Thomas Williams, Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool, will carry out his duties until that time.

BBC: Archbishop Patrick Kelly's resignation accepted

Dr Williams will be succeeded by the Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Justin Welby - who has said the ordination of women bishops will go ahead.

BBC: Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams