DR. FISHER’S RETIREMENT

Press, Volume C, Issue 29435, 10 February 1961, Page 3

DR. FISHER’S RETIREMENT

Rumour Denied By Archbishop (N .Z.PA.-Reuter—Copyright) LONDON, Feb. 8. The Archbishop of Canterbury (Dr. Fisher) publicly denied today that his forthcoming retirement was influenced in any way by his recent visit to Pope John. The Primate told the Anglican Church Assembly in London that one story circulating in America said that after his courtesy visit to the Vatican in December he wished to become a Roman Catholic.

A second story circulating in Continental Europe said he had decided to retire in the face of controversies in England after his Vatican visit. The Primate also mentioned a broadcast from Eastern Europe suggesting he had been forced to resign because the Papal meeting had not produced the ‘‘political results” expected. "Absurd Stories"

"I always find it difficult to make a public denial of stories so a’osurd that no intelligent person could give them credence,” Dr. Fisher said. “But I am informed that two absurd stories of this kind are in circulation outside England, and are proving to be injurious there. Accordingly I have been asked to state publicly that they are wildly untrue.

Dr. Fisher said: “It will suffice if I say first that there has been so far as I know no controversy at all connected with my recent visits. “On the contrary there has been almost unanimous approval both here and in countries overseas, and good results have already been visible, far exceeding anything that I could have expected.” His statement, interrupted by laughter, brought applause from his audience of bishops, clergy and lay representatives.