12 December 1998 Let us pray Sir: I believe the time has come for a serious inquiry into the function and purpose of the BBC. It claims to be a public service broadcaster. Nothing could be further from the truth as far as religious broadcasting is concerned. On Christmas Day on BBC television there is not a single act of worship. The housebound, the elderly and the hospitalised are thereby profoundly deprived. They are offered limitless entertainment but never a moment when they can join with countless thousands who will be at worship on that day. The Director General and Board of Governors presumably have a duty to ensure that the foundational truths and beliefs of our country are explored, examined, criticised and celebrated. They have neglected that duty as far as Christmas is concerned. Why have they done so? Christopher St Albans (The Right Rev Christopher Herbert, Bishop of St Albans), Abbey Gate House, St Albans, Hertfordshire