THE Archbishop of York has confirmed he does not want to become the next Archbishop of Canterbury.

A spokesman for Dr David Hope said he intended to take his place on the Crown Appointments Commission, the body which submits two potential names to the Prime Minister for a final decision on who should get the top job.

A place on the commission would automatically make Dr Hope ineligible for the position.

The Archbishop, who lives at Bishopthorpe Palace near York, has come under considerable pressure to make himself available to replace George Carey when he retires at the end of October. Many within the church have felt his considerable experience and likeable personality would make him the best person for the job.

Updated: 11:34 Thursday, March 21, 2002