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The 61-year-old is a member of the Triratna Buddhist Order, a worldwide movement of people who try to engage with the Buddha's teachings in the conditions of the modern world.

Newcombe said other groups who were looking into this included the Triratna sect, which has faced controversy after a former follower claimed he was coerced into sex with one of its elders.

Triratna, which has tens of thousands of followers, is battling to protect its reputation, both in the worldwide Buddhist community and among its own members who are questioning the extent to which the coercion was perpetrated and how long it continued.

In a statement on its website, the community said: “As part of our commitment to safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, Triratna’s safeguarding officer has reported the matter to social services in south London, in accordance with formal safeguarding requirements in the UK. Where required, we ask members of the Order to co-operate fully with any investigation, should that take place.”

Triratna’s College of Preceptors, its leadership body, has issued a statement in response to Lingwood’s apology.