Dr Fisher Clarifies Remarks On Adultery (Press, 24 December 1959)

On 24 December 1959, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Geoffrey Fisher, clarified his recent comments regarding adultery following some misleading press coverage. During a diocesan conference in November, he called for strong legislation to combat issues such as betting and prostitution, and he notably suggested that adultery should be treated as a criminal offence. In his January diocesan letter, he attempted to elucidate his stance, emphasising the distinction he believes exists between sinful actions and criminal offences. Dr. Fisher stated that the State determines what constitutes a criminal act, which must align with public sentiment to a certain degree. He reflected on the challenges faced by the State in defining the boundaries between legal, illegal, and merely socially undesirable behaviour, placing adultery among these complexities alongside some homosexual offences and prostitution. Dr. Fisher recounted that his remarks on adultery at the conference were brief, mentioning the views of Bishop Hensley Henson, who supports characterising adultery as a crime due to its severe social implications. He argued that adultery inflicts significant damage on public welfare, contributing to broken homes and adversely affecting the children of such marriages. He posed rhetorical questions aimed at generating public discourse, such as whether society considers adultery a growing public menace worthy of criminal status. Dr. Fisher also touched on the changing public attitudes towards adultery, pointing out that what was once condemned is now often overlooked. He prompted readers to consider the societal harm caused when a third party disrupts a marriage, inflicting injury on the institution of marriage itself. Overall, Dr. Fisher's comments stirred various reactions as he urged for a thoughtful examination of the implications of adultery on society, raising questions about the responsibility of the community and the church in addressing this issue. His remarks were intended to provoke reflection rather than to incite immediate legislative action.

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