The author argues that faith schools serve to exacerbate existing divisions in society and are therefore a threat to social cohesion. In many parts of Britain where segregation is already a reality, "faith" has now become another word for "race". Ethnic groups are not evenly spread between the religions, creating a situation where religion is used as a "proxy" for ethnicity. At the same time, there is the distinct possibility that some faith schools (and academies sponsored by faith groups) will use their power to influence the curriculum to undermine the values of a liberal, tolerant and enlightened society. (Contains 2 notes.)