D E MARGRETT quotes the Bible - 'Love thy neighbour (Tuesday, June 21).

Absolutely, God has given us the responsibility to care for those in need. However, D E Margrett instead wants the Government to love our neighbours by proxy.

The Bible teaches charity and compassion. However, it also teaches respect for others - 'Thou shalt not steal.' When the government taxes people to pay for welfare or aid, it acts like well-intentioned Robin Hood - robbing the rich to give to the poor. That is plain old stealing.

God will judge those who ignore the plight of the poor.

However, God will also judge the proud who make themselves into gods. God requires 10 per cent of a man's income. If the Government taxes people more than that, it is setting itself up as an idol.

Our job is to love our neighbours. The government's job is to catch crooks and keep out invaders.

MATTHEW A CLARKE,

Worcester