Written question asked by Lord Blencathra (Conservative) on Tuesday, 3 March 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 17 March 2020. It was answered by Baroness Berridge (Conservative) on Tuesday, 17 March 2020 on behalf of the Women and Equalities.

Veganism

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government, following the 3 January ruling by Justice Robin Postle that veganism satisfies the tests required for it to be a philosophical belief and is therefore protected under the Equality Act 2010, what plans they have to amend that Act.

Answer: A series of tribunal readings since 2010 mean that protected philosophical beliefs under the Equality Act 2010 include not only ethical veganism but belief in Scottish independence, anti-fox hunting, democratic socialism and the higher purpose of public sector broadcasting. I therefore agree with my Noble Friend that the scope of philosophical belief will be included in any future decisions the government takes about possible changes to the act.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL2142
Session: 2019-21
Related items: Veganism
Monday, 23 March 2020
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Veganism
Legislation: Equality Act 2010
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk