It is ironic that in a country where political correctness is fast becoming the law of the land and where specifically, freedom of speech is being curtailed in favour of relatively small interest groups, that permissiveness of blasphemy is essentially going down the drain.
Despite Neil's (of Gloucestershire) statement that the abolition of the ..."Christian superstition and the abolition of any religious superstition ...." is overdue. his views fly in the face of the my above mentioned 'control of free speech'. It would appear that the beliefs and views of one group are to lose their legal protection while laws are enacted against the use of 'free speech' in other areas.

Bill Channon (Expat British), Francestown, NH, USA

To reply to our US cynic from Boulder what the Islamists do is a matter for them, the blasphemy laws in the UK apply to the Christian superstition and the abolition of any religious superstition in our legislation is to welcomed.

Neil, Gloucestershire, England

No views, religious or otherwise, should be granted the privilege of being protected by law from criticism or ridicule. Full stop.

alan, cologne,

I am extremely pleased that the blasphemy laws look destined to be abolished. As a humanist, the right to freedom of speech on these matters is very important to me. I also have a very keen appreciation of the arts in all its forms and need to feel that every facet of expression is free to show its opinion without fear of persecution whether it be humour, art, theatre or music. Only people who have little confidence in their beliefs feel the need to oppress these opinions.

jennifer riley, london, uk

Okay, so the Church of Engand won't oppose it. How about the Islamists? Will they be as understanding?

John, Boulder, CO, US

What His Grace means is that neither he personally nor the Church of England generally would have sufficient backbone to require that the Christian Faith be accorded at least the nominal respect it once took for granted. He will have to talk to "other religious bodies" like the Muslims, however, who may not approve of his cringing.

G Reade, London, England