25 JULY 1981, Page 17

Sir: Peter Lloyd, in his airy dismissal of religion in

his letter (18 July) about charitable status, unwittingly reveals his own creed. He is saying in effect: I believe in the state's infallibility in judging what is the public good, I believe in the power of honest moral reflection alone to give me spiritual enlightenment, I believe in the attainment of inner peace by rational thought. Does Mr Lloyd want charitable status for any group professing these discredited superstitions?

L. Arnell 16 Cedar Drive, Sun ningdale, Ascot, Berkshire