Cardinal Pell has issued a statement declaring he wil return to face historical sexual abuse charges in Victoria.

In statement in response to police news they would be charging the Ballarat Cardinal, he has issued a vigorous denial and a declaration of his intent to fight the charges. 

“Although it is still in the early hours of the morning in Rome, Cardinal George Pell has been informed of the decision and action of Victoria Police, “ the statement reads.

Pell has again strenuously denied all allegations and maintained he would always cooperate with Victoria Police over the allegations.

Cardinal Pell was unable to attend hearings of the Royal Commission into Sexual abuse in Ballarat last year where he gave evidence about historical sexual abuse within the church, unrelated to these charges, due to health conditions which prevented him from travelling on long-haul flights. 

 He then presented evidence via video link from Rome over a week long period in March 2016. 

“Cardinal Pell will return to Australia, as soon as possible, to clear his name following advice and approval by his doctors who will also advise on his travel arrangements.”

The statement says Cardinal Pell “is looking forward to his day in court and will defend the charges vigorously.”

​More to come.