Census 2011

In reply to SoggyMog :

Great piece. I think the number self-identifying as non-religious is important, particularly when (as others have already stated) the question is leading. I have friends who have recently christened their newborn "So they have the choice of whether to believe or not - at least they'll have a religion if they want one". 

Whilst I support their open mindedness to the fact that their offspring may not believe what they do, they still feel that being "made" Christian should be the default position. This child could quite easily think of themselves as Christian even if they aren't practising or if they don't believe a word of it (especially if they've never thought about it or don't care either way). 

The question needs rephrasing, perhaps with a "Are you devout / practising?" or one question for family religion and one for personal beliefs (which would be an interesting stat in itself - how many are leaving religion?). Perhaps even an additional question regarding being SECULAR. That would get rid of some justification the church uses for their privileged position.