22 JUNE 1996, Page 22

Of doubtful character

Sir: Rael Jean Isaac writes (`The real mean- ing of Netanyahu', 8 June) that the reli- gious parties 'made a stunning showing' in the Israeli election and concludes that this will help to improve 'prospects for Israel's survival and the preservation of its Jewish character'. During the election campaign, Shas, the most successful of the religious parties, was selling 'lucky' amulets in exchange for votes. Are people who engage in such superstitious and corrupt practices really the preservers of the 'Jewish charac- ter' of Israel?

Deborah Maccoby

`Airedale', Sach Road, Clapton, London E5