The disappearance of history teaching from many British schools constitutes a dangerous social trend.

In order to understand questions such as why we live in a multicultural society, it is first necessary to understand historical issues such as the British Empire, and to learn about Britain’s long relationship with countries such as those of South Asia today.

Patrick Mercer, the MP and historical novelist, is right to ask how many British Pakistani children are taught about Britain’s relationship with Pakistan. However, surely all British children should know about this relationship.

Without the necessary historical understanding and knowledge, young people can become vulnerable to political extremism, whether it comes from violent religious extremists, or parties of the far right.

Shouvik Datta, Orpington, Kent.