Following media reports debating whether veganism is a protected belief under current and future UK Equality Law, The Vegan Society Chair of Trustees, George Rodger, has sent this letter to the UK Minister for Women and Equality:

The Rt. Hon. Harriet Harman QC MP

Minister for Women and Equality

Government Equalities Office

5th Floor

Eland House

Bressenden Place

London

SW1E 5DU

Wednesday 10 March 2010

Dear Minister,

The Vegan Society are delighted to see support from the Equality and Human Rights Commission for our interpretation of existing and future UK equality law, namely that veganism is a legally protected belief.

As you know, vegans seek to exclude from their lives all use of animals for food, clothing or any other purpose. Veganism is based on a heart-felt ethical commitment to live without any form of exploitation of animals.

The Vegan Society hears daily of vegans being discriminated against in situations ranging from hospitals and schools to work places and hotels.

A firm clarification from the Government Equalities Office that veganism is protected under the Equality Act will be of great value to tens of thousands of UK residents, and will be applauded worldwide.

Yours sincerely,

George D Rodger

Chair, Vegan Society Council of Trustees

Media contact:

Amanda Baker: media@vegansociety.com – 07847 664793 – 0121 523 1737

Information contact:

info@vegansociety.com – 0121 523 1735/6 – http://www.vegansociety.com/

Note for Editors:

Founded in 1944, The Vegan Society promotes vegan lifestyles – which exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of non-human animals for food, clothing or any other purpose. Registered Charity No 279228, Company Registration No 1468880, VAT Registration No 448 5973 95