LABOUR councillor Paul Blanchard publicly expressed the view that praying for the safe return of missing York University chef Claudia Lawrence is pointless.

Faith is felt in varying degrees and ways about many different things and ideas. It brings people together and divides them, too. It is also a powerful motivator; hence the old saying that faith can move mountains.

People like Coun Blanchard, a member of York City Council and a former prospective parliamentary candidate – who has now apologised for his remarks following a barrage of complaints (Echo, April 11) – is not doing a very good job of rebuilding this now defunct resource in our politicians.

His remarks show a lack of respect for those worried by the grief of Miss Lawrence’s disappearance, whose faiths might be different to his.

George Appleby, Clifton, York.