Sir, The recent report commissioned by the Church of England may be right in its criticism of the Government for sidelining Christianity (“Church attacks Labour for betraying Christians”, report, June 7), but would the appointment of a “Minister for Religion” improve the situation?

It could actually backfire by imposing increased government interference in what churches were allowed to practise. The example of other countries where such appointments have been made has not been universally beneficial to the Christian faith.

The Church itself must take some responsibility for the present situation by having acceded in the past to the secular agenda that the report criticises rather than proclaim a clear biblical message.

What is needed is not so much a reorganisation of structures within society as a reformation and revival of Christian beliefs and standards within the church.

Peter Bannister
Taunton, Somerset

Sir, If we are to have a “Minister for Religion”, should we also appoint a “Minister for Atheism” to balance it out?

Jonathan Brady
Glasgow

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