The Queen guitarist Sir Brian May has resigned as vice-president of the RSPCA in protest at what he called the “appalling” animal welfare standards on farms certified under the organisation’s scheme. Almost 4,000 food suppliers pay to use the RSPCA Assured label. Sir Brian said that the charity had failed in its response to evidence of abuse within these so-called ‘assured’ farms. The abuse includes hitting the animals, overcrowding and poor hygiene.
In an earlier post on a different website I reported on this and said that the RSPCA Assured farm scheme is in tatters and Sir Brian’s resignation is in protest at the failure of the RSPCA to do anything about these abuses.
It appears that these farms are signing up to the scheme to improve their profits while, I would allege, demonstrating no genuine intention of improving animal welfare standards. The scheme is being abused and the RSPCA is presiding over it.
About Sir Brian’s animal welfare campaigning
Sir Brian May, renowned as the lead guitarist of the rock band Queen, is also a passionate advocate for animal welfare. Over the years, he has become a vocal and committed activist, working to protect wildlife, particularly in the UK. His dedication to this cause has been as significant as his musical legacy, often driving him to campaign against practices that harm animals.
Here are some key aspects of his animal welfare activism:
1. Save Me Trust
In 2010, Brian May founded the Save Me Trust, named after Queen’s song “Save Me.” The charity is dedicated to protecting wild animals, particularly British wildlife. The trust focuses on raising awareness and working against policies that allow inhumane treatment of animals. Some of the main campaigns include opposition to fox hunting, badger culling, and trophy hunting.
2. Opposition to Badger Culling
One of Brian May’s most high-profile campaigns is his strong opposition to badger culling in the UK. The government-sanctioned culls are intended to reduce the spread of bovine tuberculosis (bTB), but May and other activists argue that culling is ineffective and inhumane. He believes that vaccination programs for badgers and better cattle management would be more effective solutions.
May has been highly active in challenging government policies related to badger culling. He has not only used his platform to speak out but has also worked with scientists and activists to propose alternative methods to prevent the spread of bTB without harming wildlife.
3. Anti-Fox Hunting Campaigns
Another significant aspect of Brian May’s activism is his opposition to fox hunting. Despite the Hunting Act of 2004, which banned hunting with dogs in England and Wales, illegal hunting still persists. May has consistently voiced his opposition to this practice and has advocated for stricter enforcement of the ban. He believes that all forms of cruelty to animals, particularly for sport, should be stopped.
4. General Advocacy for Wildlife and Conservation
May’s work goes beyond these specific campaigns. He regularly advocates for animal welfare in broader contexts, including conservation efforts and global wildlife protection. His Save Me Trust works on various wildlife conservation projects, focusing on creating safe habitats and raising awareness about the importance of protecting ecosystems.
5. Public Advocacy and Political Engagement
May has become a prominent public figure in animal welfare circles, often using his platform to engage with the political process. He has lobbied MPs, participated in debates, and supported legal actions to protect animals. His visibility as a rock star has brought significant attention to the causes he champions, making him an important figure in the UK’s animal welfare movement.
6. Vocal on Social Media
Brian May also uses social media to advocate for animal rights, engaging with his millions of followers. He frequently posts updates about the campaigns he is involved in, shares information about wildlife conservation, and calls for action against policies that harm animals.
7. Recognition for His Work
In 2020, Sir Brian May was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) not just for his musical contributions, but also in recognition of his tireless work for animal welfare and charity. His contributions to animal welfare have earned him respect far beyond the music world.
Through his Save Me Trust, public advocacy, and hands-on involvement in key campaigns, Sir Brian May has become one of the UK’s most influential and committed animal welfare advocates.
MORE: Chris Packham criticises the RSPCA Assured farms scheme
