SIR – Re Brian Holmans’s comments (Letters, February 10). He states that the bishops are guided by the Bible. Over many years the Bible has been quoted with many interpretations to suit the need of individuals.

Much of the New Testament was written hundreds of years after actual events. Even he quotes Charles I’s translation.

There are many thousands working in this country for minimum wage take-home pay, after tax and national insurance, of £12,144 pa, so according to his quote (Luke 1 vs53), he actually thinks that the poor working for a pittance, many going hungry, will get good things, while rich benefit claimants on £25,000 net will be sent away empty-handed.

Yes I do agree with him, true charity should go to the needy.

Michael Hallam, Florida Road, Sandy Lane