With the smallest of margins the UK government has voted this week that animals are not sentient beings as part of the Brexit withdrawal bill. The vote means that animals will no longer be recognised as being capable of feeling emotions such as joy and compassion, but also fear, suffering and terror. ‘“There can only be one reason to deny animal sentient status, and that is to exploit them”. Three petitions have since been launched challenging this highly upsetting and unjust vote: From Avaaz From 38 Degrees From Cha nge.org . Please take a few moments to sign these, and share these far and wide.