Letter: Relations between the monarch and an established Church of England

Sir: Where is the famous contradiction between a country's 'official' religion and a multi-faith society? Britain has been a multi- faith society ever since the days of the Empire. The whole point of having an 'official religion' these days is that - given the multitude of religions - one of the most tolerant ones is chosen to represent all religions at official functions.

If the Church of England wants to introduce a really useful reform within its ranks, it should make belief in God a pre-condition of priesthood - and (as we are supposed to be talking about a Christian religion) also a belief in Christ and the Resurrection.

Yours faithfully,

ALEXANDER HAMLYN-HYDE

Munich

Germany

25 January