A Norwegian Bishop is to resign after his son left him bankrupt. Bishop Ernst Baasland of Stavanger was declared bankrupt in September. Reports claim that his son has amassed gambling debts of 60 million kroner (approx $10m).

Bishop Ernst has borrowed large sums of money from friends and banks in an effort to support his son. Questions remain as to whether the Bishop was entirely honest with lenders as to the reason for the loans.

Having been in post since 1998, the Bishop is now on leave and will vacate the see in June 2009.