A bishop in the Church of England who predicted that Prince William’s marriage to Kate Middleton would last seven years has been asked to “withdraw” from public ministry.

Bishop of Willesden, the Rt Rev Pete Broadbent, sparked anger and calls for his resignation after making the comments in a conversation posted on Twitter and Facebook.

His comments, which also complain about the “nauseating tosh” surrounding Royal weddings, have caused the Church of England considerable embarrassment.

The request for his withdrawal from public ministry was made yesterday by his superior, the Bishop of London, Dr Richard Chartres.

In a statement Dr Chartres said he had been in touch with St James’ Palace to express his “dismay” over the bishop’s comments on behalf of the Church.

He said: “I was appalled by the Bishop of Willesden’s comments about the forthcoming royal marriage. In common with most of the country I share the joy which the news of the engagement has brought.

“I have now had an opportunity to discuss with Bishop Peter how his comments came to be made and I have noted his unreserved apology.

“Nevertheless, I have asked him to withdraw from public ministry until further notice.”

Bishop Broadbent has issued a formal apology for his comments and whilst some agree with the temporary suspension, others feel it is a step too far.

Twitter and Facebook campaigns have been launched to rally support for him and there are calls for people to boycott the Daily Mail, which they believe took the bishop’s comments out of context and used them to attack him.