The diocese of Chichester had a “major issue” with priests carrying out abuse, an inquiry has heard.
Bishop of Chichester, the Rt Rev Martin Warner, made the claim when giving evidence to the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse.
Dr Warner said there had been a “breakdown of trust” between the Church of England and the local council.
He also said he was warned by a senior Church of England official that the area was considered “a basket case”.
The bishop claimed Caroline Boddington, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury’s appointments secretary, made the remark when he was appointed in 2012.