Chris Thackray and Larry Wright (EA October 26) make some good points. If it were possible for all children in Northern Ireland to go to the same schools, this would help to pave the way for peace in future generations.

I agree also that religious fanaticism can involve the rejection of conscience, leading to tragic events such as occurred in September.

However, to generalise and make blanket statements that all religion encourages blind faith and the setting aside of conscience, is surely unwarranted.

The Christian faith treats conscience as very important. It would in fact be impossible to have such a morally unimpeachable religion if this were not the case.

Obedience to God is always open to reason and logic, even though the logic often requires belief in a real God who is at work in the world.

As regards blind faith, no one is ever expected to swallow Christianity hook, line and sinker, without a reasoned look at the facts. To make an analogy with good and bad religion, it's true that some people who sell used cars are dishonest. Does this mean they're all as bad as one another, implying that no one should ever buy a second-hand car?

If you get the AA to do a used car inspection, then you can have some confidence that the car is OK.

Likewise, you can examine the facts about the Christian faith, and reach a conclusion (as I have) that it's pretty reasonable to believe these things and put your faith in Jesus.

Trevor Hancock

Ipswich Street

Swindon