The Chief Rabbi, Lord Sacks, is to retire in September 2013, it was announced tonight at the United Synagogue council meeting.

Despite some speculation that he would not be replaced, Simon Hochauser, President of the US, made clear that there would be a successor. He also revealed that focus groups will be used during the recruitment process.

Speculation will now begin in earnest as to his successor, and the precise method by which he will be appointed.