Late Again?

[Brassed Off]

Why is it that people in prominent positions wait until they have vacated or left such positions, to then say what should have been said to much greater effect whilst in office?
Lord Carey is belatedly making bold statements with regard to the Church of Englands stance on immigrants entering the UK.
I don't seem to remember His Grace "rocking the boat" whilst head of the Church, when it would have been more meaningful, and had more effect, had he done so then.
Is it because of the poor showing of the present incumbent Archbishop Williams?
Is it because of shrinking congregations? The only branch of the Christian churches that has bucked the trend is the Roman Catholic one, mainly due to the massive influx of East Europeans into the UK.
Back to the leading question!
In making such belated comments, is it to salve their consciences, for not facing up to, and dealing with issues when they are current ?
Or with many, it coincides with the publication of their memoirs!