The Metropolitan Police service has ordered a record number of vegan meals after arresting more than 1,400 climate activists this week, according to reports.
The arrests are a result of a two-week international protest by environmental group Extinction Rebellion – and its sister group Animal Rebellion – in bid to make the government tackle the climate emergency.
This action follows a week-long protest in April during which, Inspector Brian Smith of Brixton station revealed, it ran out of vegan options for those arrested.
‘Plenty of vegan food’
In a video posted to social media, Inspector Smith said: “Well everyone knows we ran a bit low last time so this time we’ve got plenty.
“In fact, yesterday, a pallet load of vegan food was delivered, so we’ve got plenty for everyone.’
A Metropolitan Police source confirmed to MailOnline: “Record numbers of vegan meals are being used in our cells.”
‘Plant-based food system’
Speaking about the protests for a plant-based food system, Animal Rebellion spokesperson, Kerri Waters said: “Our government has failed to act on the climate emergency declared back in April. The next 18 months will be critical for putting in place a plan of action to address climate breakdown and avert the most disastrous effects.
“A key part of that is ending the animal farming and fishing industries that contribute hugely to greenhouse gas emissions. Instead of focusing precious public resources on repressing peaceful protest, the authorities should be concentrating on the biggest existential threat humanity has ever faced.
“Animal Rebellion believe the UK government is not doing enough to respond to climate breakdown, needs to organise a just transition to a plant-based food system.
“The group highlights the global injustice caused by animal agriculture’s supporters and profiteers, with conservative estimates placing the industry’s contribution to global GHG emissions at 14.5 percent, more than all world transport combined.”