Letter: A worse scandal than adultery

Sir: When faced by men who pestered him to condemn a woman for frequent adultery, Jesus said: 'Let him who is without sin among you cast the first stone at her.' The men withdrew from the debate.

The current moral debate is sterile with condemnation. It includes throwing stones at people who, either temporarily or permanently, need financial support from the rest of us through our taxes. The debate about adultery diverts attention from the moral debate about taxation and benefits. The massive injustice of widespread and increasing poverty is by far the greater scandal.

There is a vision of just and compassionate Government to be found in the Bible which can inspire all politicians who claim allegiance to Christianity and all people of goodwill. 'Where there is no vision the people perish.'.

Yours sincerely,

PAUL NICOLSON

Turville, Buckinghamshire

7 January