The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams has undergone a minor surgical procedure today to have a small cyst removed from his left arm.

His engagements for the remainder of the week have been rearranged and he is expected to resume his duties at the weekend. The procedure was straightforward and he is making a very good recovery.

The Bishop of Hulme, the Rt Revd Stephen Lowe, will represent the Archbishop at the National Poverty Hearings taking place tomorrow morning and the Bishop of London, the Rt Revd Richard Chartres will represent the Archbishop at Clarence House for the launch of Accounting for Sustainability tomorrow afternoon.

On Thursday, acting under a formal Commission from Dr Williams, Dr Chartres will lead the Consecration of the Venerable Peter Maurice, Archdeacon of Wells, as the new Bishop of Taunton.