SIR B Depledge (T&A, May 9) rightly criticises the Bishop of Bradford and the Archbishop of York for entering the "political arena", but this event is minor when compared to the power such unelected prelates already wield in our governmental structure.

For centuries, bishops have been given seats in the House of Lords simply by virtue of their profession, enabling them to exercise their insidious influence on our laws.

To many, this method of appointment is even more offensive than mere accident of birth, Tony's Cronies' or the alleged Cash for Coronets'!

It is high time these cassocked crusaders' were ejected from our legislature, along with all the other placemen', and for a new Upper Chamber to be established with democratically elected Senators, ideally non-political, to provide practical wisdom, moderation and guidance to our law-making process.

Graham Hoyle, Kirkbourne Grove, Baildon.