WITH regard to the letter by Roderick Taylor (Oxford Mail, March 16), many readers support the idea that all school children should learn about the world’s major religions, how much they have in common, and that for communal wellbeing all of us should ‘live and let live’, regardless of personal beliefs or lack of them.

Yet most of us are also aware that our country is subsidising ever more faith-specific schools.

In addition, three-quarters of us agreed that the terminally ill Diane Pretty should have been allowed to terminate her life at the time of her choosing.

Many also agree that the NHS is still diverting many millions of pounds into subsidising faith-based chaplains.

The reason for these dichotomies are that, under the leadership of the last three PMs, ministers have repeatedly cited the 2001 census findings – that more than 70 per cent of the country said it was Christian).

This is why the lifestyles of many of those who like the concept of a divine presence that somehow influences their lives (but don’t find satisfaction in any established religion) should have ticked the “no religion” box, rather than the “any other religion” box, in answer to the “What is your religion?” question in the 2011 Census. Mr Taylor’s letter argues powerfully for ticking the “any other religion” box but I’m sure he is ignoring the realities.

John D White, Chairman, Oxford Humanists, High Street, Chalgrove