"During yesterday’s debate on the Agenda, members of Synod voiced concerns about Government policy towards Iraq, and we prayed together for a peaceful outcome. I have received many representations from Church people in this country and around the Anglican Communion about the situation in Iraq and about the risks of military action. I had a meeting yesterday with the Foreign Secretary and put these concerns before him. We discussed the sharp dilemmas posed by President Saddam Hussein’s failure to comply with United Nations resolutions relating to weapons inspections.

"I am convinced that the UK Government is fully aware of the complexity and seriousness of these dilemmas; of the very serious concerns of church people and others about the use of military force; and of the risks and dangers whatever course of action or inaction is chosen. In my view, so long as President Saddam Hussein’s present attitude continues, there is no risk-free option, and to leave the Iraqi President defying the will of the U.N. and developing a greatly increased capability in horrible weapons of mass destruction would itself be a potentially disastrous outcome, especially for the people of Iraq and Iraq’s neighbours.

"By far the most humane, just and peaceful way forward would be for President Saddam to comply with U.N. requirements on weapons inspection in full, and I add my voice as spiritual leader of the world-wide Anglican Communion to all those urging the Government of Iraq to accept the U.N.’s requirements in full rather than bring further disaster and suffering on their country.

"I am aware that the way in which the strategic options are debated publicly in this country can itself affect the chances of a peaceful outcome because of its impact on the perceptions of the Iraqi regime.

"I intend to maintain close contacts with the UK Government, and to ensure that they remain fully aware of the deeply felt concerns and insights of the Anglican Communion and its ecumenical partners around the world".