IN response to B. W. Wheeler's letter (17th August), I agree that many things are gradually and subtly being eroded from British life.

I notice that Whitsun/ Whit Sunday is now referred to by the media as a "Spring Bank Holiday" and on all official forms 'forename' has now replaced 'Christian?Name'. Many schools now serve halal meat to their pupils, though I suspect many (given the choice, which they weren't) would prefer to eat humanely-slaughtered animals.

Recently British Airways (BA) tried to prevent a member of staff from wearing a small crucifix, yet encourage muslims and sikhs to show their religion by providing headwear in company colours – double standards indeed by BA! No wonder the Pope, on his recent visit, refused to travel home with this airline.

We are instructed by the authorities to respect all religions, yet those in power constantly seek to debase our own cultural heritage and beliefs. It's time we all said "no" to the latter.

I'm not sure if Mr Wheeler prefers not to see religious representations of any kind, and I agree that all those in public service should adhere to a secular mode of dress – but please – let's have a level playing field.

– Mrs H Miles, Swansea.