The Vegan Winter 1967 by The Vegan Society

T H E VEGAN SOCIETY Founded November,

1944

Veganism is a way of living which excludes all forms of exploitation of, a n d cruelty to, the animal kingdom, and includes a reverence and compassion for all life. It applies to the practice of living on the products of the plant kingdom to the exclusion of flesh, fish, fowl, eggs, honey, animal milk and its derivatives, and encourages the use of alternatives f o r all commodities derived wholly or in part f r o m animals. Veganism remembers man's responsibilities to the earth and its resources a n d seeks to bring about a healthy soil and plant kingdom and a proper u s e of t h e materials of the earth. President: Dr. FREY E L L I S , d ey. Deputy-President: Mrs. E. B. SHRIGLEY, , Old Coulsdon, Surrey. Vice-Presidents: Mrs. M U R I E L DRAKE, Dr. CATHERINE NIMMO, Miss M A B E L SIMMONS, Miss W I N I F R E D SIMMONS, Mrs. EVA BATT, Mr. JACK SANDERSON,

Secretary Treasu

B.SC.

: Mrs. LOUISE D A V I S , SM (to

Green 6 4 0 8 . Librarian: Mr. W. H. C . W R I G H T , B.SC., Middlesex.

London, S . E . I 2 . ould Enfield,

Committee: M r . E. T . BANKS, M r s . E . BATT, M r . H . T . BONNIE, M r s . S . C O L E S , Dr. FREY E L L I S , Mr. J . H O P K I N S , Miss T . C . LARKIN, A.T.C.L., M r . M . M C C U L L O C H , M r . J . SANDERSON, B.SC., M r s . E . B . SHRIGLEY, M r s . G . SMITH, M r . W . H . C . W R I G H T , B.SC.

M i n i m u m subscription, which includes " T h e V e g a n " , 15s. per annum (and 7s. 6d. for each additional member of one family at same residence); 7s. 6d. if age under 18: payable in January. Life Membership, £10 10s. Od. THE

VEGAN

J O U R N A L OF T H E V E G A N SOCIETY T h e Editorial Board does not necessarily agree with opinions expressed b y contributors to this magazine. Please send articles and letters for publication to 123 Baker Street, Enfield, Middlesex. Editorial Board: Mrs. EVA BATT, Mrs. SERENA C O L E S , Dr. FREY E L L I S . Editorial Adviser: Mr. JACK SANDERSON, B.SC. Vegan Distribution Secretary : Miss THELMA LARKIN, A.T.C.L., 4 8 Dunmow Gardens, West H o r n d o n , Brentwood, Essex. Advertisements : H. H. G R E A V E S LTD., 106/110 Lordship Lane, London, S.E.22. Rates: Whole page—£10 0s. 0d.; Half page—£6 0s 0d.: Q u a r t e r page—£3 10s. Od. Published quarterly: Annual Subscription, 10s.; single copies, 2s. 6d. plus postage. Obtainable f r o m the H o n . Secretary.

LITERATURE " T h e Reasons for Veganism." 4 page leaflet. 3d. S.A.E. only. " Vegan Protein Nutrition." 12 page leaflet. Is. 3d. post free. " A H a n d b o o k of Practical Veganism." 24 pages with cover. 2s. 9d. post free. " T h e Vegetarian and Vegan Food Guide." 2s. 6d. post free. " T h e Vegan Kitchen " by Freya Dinshah. 5s. 6d. De luxe edition, 7s. 6d. post free. " Q u i c k and Easy Menus " by K. Keleny. 2s. l i d . post free. " Vegan Recipes." A collection of members' favourites. 10 sheets, Is. 9d. post free. All obtainable from t h e Secretary. (Cheques and postal orders should be m a d e out to " The Vegan Society.")

THE VEGAN Journal

of the Vegan

Society

WINTER, 1967

EDITORIAL One of the first vegans known to history is Apollonius of Tyana. This remarkable man lived in the first century A.D. and is said to have healed, performed miracles, taught by example and to have been indifferent to the outer forms of religion. He lived his philosophy and refused to discuss it and left behind him legends wherever he travelled. He was one of the greatest travellers known to antiquity. Among the countries and places he visited are the following:â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Babylon, India, Nepal, Antioch, Cyprus, Ionia, Ephesus, Athens, Smyrna, Spain, Airica, Egypt, Lesbos and Rome. Sidonius Apollinaris in the fifth century A.D. describes him as follows: "Courted by sovereigns, but never courting them; eager for knowledge; aloof from moneygetting, fasting at feasts, linen-clad among wearers of purple; rebuking luxury; self-contained: plain-spoken; shock-headed in the midst of perfumed nations; revered and admired for his simplicity . . . His diet and clothing were strictly vegan, " Hence he refused to touch anything that had animal life in it, on the ground that it densified the mind and rendered it impure". He considered that the only pure form of food was what the earth produced, fruits and vegetables. He also abstained from wine, for though it was made from fruit, " it rendered turbid the aether in the soul" and " destroyed the composure of the mind ". Moreover, "he went barefoot, let his hair grow long,, and wore nothing but linen."1 He adopted this way of life for practical reasons and not for sentiment,- " T h e refraining from flesh of ^animals, however, was not simply based upon ideas of purity, it found additional sanction in the positive love of the lower kingdoms and the horror of inflicting pain on any living creature." Thus Apollonius blundy refused to take any part in the chase, when invited to do. so by his royal host at Babylon. " Sire ", he replied, "have you forgotten that even when you sacrifice I will not be present? Much less then would I do these beasts to death, and all the 1

more when their spirit is broken and they are penned contrary to their nature." 1 When asked at his trial before the Emperor Domitian, "Why do you not wear the same garments as other men, instead of this peculiar and conspicuous costume?" Apollonius replied, " Because the same earth which feeds me clothes me too, and I would not wish to add to the troubles of the animals." 1 Apollonius demanded that his followers should adhere to definite ways, " If any say he is my disciple, then let him add, he keeps himself apart out of the Baths, he slays no living thing, eats of no flesh, is free from envy, malice, hatred, calumny, and hostile feelings, but has his name inscribed among the race of those who've won their freedom". 1 To win freedom from envy, malice, hatred, calumny and hostile feelings is a very great attribute. Perhaps Apollonius is suggesting that abstinence from animal products results in such a freedom. Pythagoras, who was almost certainly a vegan, like Apollonius left no writings. He apparently was aware of the results of an animal free diet, " Pythagoras, therefore, having been benefited by Thales in other respects, and especially haiving learned from him to be sparing of his time; for the sake of this he entirely abstained from wine and animal food, and still prior to these from voracity, and confined himself to such nutriments as was slender and easy of digestion. In consequence of this, his sleep was short, and his soul vigilant and pure, and his body confirmed in a state of perfect and invariable health." 2 It would be interesting and important to learn of any special experiences and feelings that may have occured as a result of a vegan diet. Does this diet lead to greater sensitivity, clairvoyance and greater powers? I t . might be that a group of members could make a special study of this aspect of veganism. 1 Apollanius of Tyana, G. R . S. MEAD. • : Life of Pythagoras, THOMAS TAYLOR.

F.E.

A REMINDER Kindly make a note of the dates by which we must receive your letters and reports for inclusion in The Vegan: — For the Spring issue—before February 1st, 1968. For the Summer issue—before May 1st, 1968. For the Autumn issue—before August 1st, 1968. For the Winter issue—before November 1st, 1968. Please do not leave .your letter , until the last day, avoid disappointment and help us by posting as. early as possible.

The Report of the Annual General Meeting will be published in the next issue. 2

LONDON

IS T A L K I N G A B O U T ANIMAL TABOO

IT—VEGAN

The above intriguing title appeared in the " San Francisco Chronicle" in August, above an article from Ivor Smullen, " Chronicle " Foreign Correspondent. Accompanied by a humorous sketch of a vegan " Crank", buying " Nature's Plant Milk" in a store, the article lightly mentions in passing such vegan topics as humanely produced perfumes and cosmetics; the exploitation of animals and birds in the production of milk and eggs, making special reference to cheese and the source of rennet; lubricants containing whale oil, etc.; the availability of non-leather shoes; how vegans choose clothing which does not contain hair, leather, wool or silk; and, happily, our Food Guide. Obviously the American papers also have their " silly season " —fortunately for us! It is now two years since Mr. Smullen talked with our late secretary and this is the second light-hearted though not unkind article we have seen resulting therefrom. Our thanks to the members who kindly forwarded the cutting. London, on this subject, has a still, small voice indeed! It was not exactly epoch-making publicity, but welcome nevertheless.

BOOK

REVIEW

TOWARDS FREEDOM. By Elsie E. Boden. Regency Press. 21/-. This book makes you think—right from the start. It is easy to be taken back into one's own childhood—but not so easy to be reminded of the few occasions when one has one's thoughts all to one's self—as does Lucy, the central Utopian character. Suddenly the reverie is smashed by the necessities of everyday life. It is at this point that Elsie Boden takes us that little bit further than the reverie. Reincarnation is not discussed as such but shown to be a reward for those who earn it by learning to love. As far as Veganism is concerned, she clearly points to the basic reasons why one should not drink cow's milk. Although it is a well-written and enjoyable book, it is difficult to know what section of the community it could reach. W.W. Hon. Librarian. VEGAN

LIBRARY

The librarian acknowledges with thanks a donation of some twenty-odd books from Mrs. Batt. A short review of each book will be published in the journal, together with a list of additions, when space permits. 3

MORE ABOUT MILK AND OTHER SUBJECTS The latest atrocity against the gentle cow is the extremely painful, and totally inexcusable, habit which is arising for removing their tails! In one case at least, without an anaesthetic. Not only do the cows suffer terribly for some eight hours, but for the rest of their lives they will have no protection against tormenting flies. An unnamed vet. in the radio programme for farmers (Saturday morning, April 22nd) recommended that milk cows also be kept indoors under intensive systems similar to calves. They are, however, careful not to use such words as " intensive" or " factory fanning," etc., nowadays. For the sake of the farming image, the trade now refers to " controlled environment," admittedly a better-sounding expression, but it is the same old factory farming nevertheless. Mastitis, the disease with which over 50 per cent, of our dairy cows are affected at this time (according to the same programme), could be largely prevented if farmers would only take what we would describe as the most elementary precautions, such as frequent hand washing, a clean udder cloth for each cow, wearing rubber gloves and such simple matters of ordinary everyday hygiene, but the shocking thing about all this is that it was naturally assumed by the speaker that " farmers would laugh at such suggestions." Much too much trouble apparently. How fortunate it is that milk is NOT a necessary food for humans. Whenever I see a copy of the Farmer and Stockbreeder I invariably glance through it hoping, I suppose, to find something encouraging in the way of dairy news. What a hope! Of course, I have always been disappointed; more, I have usually been shocked at the news of ever new practices, or distressed to read details of existing ones. When I picked up a copy in a ship's library recently, the librarian commented that he was pleased to see someone taking an interest in farming. I was on holiday with my husband, who was browsing through the biographies ; he said: " Oh, she is only interested in a critical way ; she is opposed to all kinds of animal farming really." Explanations had to follow, of course, and later I was asked for more details, and some long and interesting discussions followed. No one was converted either way, needless to say; but some people finished the cruise with many new and, to them, revolutionary facts on which to ponder. And I? I learned a lot also. Such as: How to tackle the build-up of parasitic worms ; the advisability of dosing calves 4

with anthelmintic (phenothiazine) among other things; the necessity to increase the nitrogen when increasing the "stocking density " (over-crowding); the advantages, financial of course, of ever-fresh milk (the Milk Marketing Board is thrilled, " It could mean additional outlets for milk sales "); how to avoid trouble " in churn "; and how to make money faster through " intensive finishing." I am also genned up on calf feeding; they " take to " and thrive on " Calfmilk " apparently (this may sound too obvious for comment, but, in fact, " Calfmilk" is not, as one might expect, milk straight from the cow, but something " fortified " from a can). Nowhere was any aspect stressed other than the profit one. Perhaps this is not surprising, but the number of diseases to which the various food animals are prone is. If I were making a living out of keeping calves, for instance, I am advised to see that they get routine doses of something called Dictol Lungword Vaccine to protect them against husk ; other advertisers tell me which vaccines and antisera to use to (economically) protect lambs against blackleg, post-parturient gangrene, struck, lamb dysentery, broxy, black disease or tetanus. As for pigs, I could now (should I want to!) rear cough-free pigs the cheap way; but I will spare you the messy details concerning " the surgical removal of the piglets from the womb before birth." Apparently this is the only way to obtain completely disease-free animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which does not speak very highly for the hygiene systems in general! Mr. Atkinson, a farmer in Brentwood, Essex, specialises in rearing calves for export to the continent, but last December his business was held up by the Ministry" of Agricuture, who, it seems, were not satisfied about the arrangements made. As this involved a possible 300 calves a week, Mr. Atkinson was not at all pleased. He protested: " The calf trade here is in the doldrums at present and an export order could do nothing but good." (Good for whom? We assume he was not referring to any benefit the calves might enjoy by being transported at a tender ageâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to what?) " Intensive Finishing " is the subject of a four-page advertisement in one copy of the Farmer and Stockbreeder. It is issued by the Electricity Council as a leaflet headed " Electric Fanning " and is available from the E.D.A. Division, Trafalgar Buildings, 1 Charing Cross Road, London, S.W.I. A few quotes might be of interest. One somewhat obvious statement is: â&#x20AC;&#x201D; " It's one of the facts of life in modern intensive farming that whenever a large number of animals is concentrated in a small area, they have to co-exist with a dense population of disease organisms, and the level of infection is never far from flashpoint. 5

. This state of affairs is aggravated when the animals are not bred and born on the farm, and thus lack the advantage of any inherited parental immunity to the farm's own particular spectrum of infection. Each imported animal brings wdth it a different strain of ' b u g ' to which young stock from other sources has little built-in-resistance. A farmer who is very conscious of this ever-present danger is Mr. Arthur Clarke, who fattens more than 1,500 bought-in calves a year in a highly intensive beef unit at Manor Farm, Isham, Northamptonshire. He finds t h a t ' Fresh air helps to prevent disease.'(!) Mr. Clarke's approach to disease control is- to pin his faith on the unique disinfectant property of fresh air, coupled with single penning. Each of his three calf nurseries (I like that word!) ' has a high-efficiency power ventilation system of his own design, and each calf has an individual box with a hygienic slotted floor until nine weeks old.' - ' I can't pretend that we never experience common ailments like salmenollosis,'he says. ' With bought-in calves the occasional outbreak is unavoidable, but with good ventilation and isolation we can contain it and present any costly spread of infection. The calf boxes are built in pairs, each unit measuring 4 feet long by 4 feet wide, and divided down the centre. . . . The boxes stand in two rows in each nursery, back' to back, with a 2-foot wide gutter between them. The concrete floor of each house falls very slightly inwards for drainage into' the gutter. Because of the high ammonia output stemming from a high liquid intake, the floors are scraped and washed down daily, and disinfected at least twice a'week.' " Later, referring to the need for ventilation in the " finishing house," we read : â&#x20AC;&#x201D; " It (the air. throughput) flows across the top of the slats, which not only has the required drying effect, but also draws off, any noxious gases generated in the manure cellars below. The tanks provide sufficient capacity for three months' manure storage."(!) Remember this is an example of an especially good and welldesigned intensive house where the farmer allows a certain amount of air. Dare we imagine what the others are like! The proud boast is that: " The animals at Manor Farm reach their 900 lb. slaughter weight in an average of ten months, consuming just over 4 i b s . of feed per lb. of live weight gain." An article from a contributor in another farming magazine : â&#x20AC;&#x201D; " Stupid Carelessness . 1 sense that the hoo-ha against.' factory farming ' is dying down and will continue to die if producers show care and thought for animal health and welfare. But I can well expect a flare-up of the controversy if there are many 6

instances such as I have seen twice recently on public highways. Both cases concerned lorry loads of crated birds which were obviously spent-out layers going to the processing factory. Both lorries were without sides. One, travelling on a bitterly cold day, had a loosely-held tarpaulin strung just across the top of the crates. It was flapping wildly in the wind, and I have never before seen such scared birds. Their wretchedness wasn't helped by complete lack of protection from the cold after having spent a year or so in controlled environment. The second lorry also had only a top tarpaulin and was travelling in driving rain. Every bird visible was drenched and looked a picture of misery. At one sharp corner the swerving lorry threw a bird out of one of the top crates. It fell to the road and crouched bewildered as other traffic passed it by. Producers should see that they have more say in how their spent layers are handled, and—for the interest of the industry's ' i m a g e ' as well as the birds—they should insist that ventilated vans, not open lorries, should be used." Hoo-ha indeed! We trust it is not dying down, nor ever does while any animal lives under these factory conditions. Yet another snippet from the Farmer and Stockbreeder: — " Research workers have developed a new drug which prevents gilts coming on heat and when withdrawn after twenty days induces fairly closely synchronised heat periods. The practical implications of this ' break-through' are immense, report Peter Johnson and T. H. Cooper." A few small extracts from a talk given by Mr. Leslie J. Cross in 1948, and later printed in The Vegan for Summer of that year, will well bear reprinting. In connection with this matter of cow's milk he said: — " . . . that by the creation and continued employment of a code of behaviour which is cruel, parasitical and selfish, man injures not only those upon whom he inflicts his cruelties, his parasitical practices and his selfishness, but he inflicts restraints upon his own evolution. A number of diseases and ailments are no doubt traceable to ethical error in that they are brought about or intensified by the consumption of foods which have an immoral basis in that their production involves cruelty or violent death, or both. . . . and milk-borne diseases are recognised even by those who take no account of the inevitable cruelties involved in dairying. . . . Animals share with us the habitation of this globe, and they are as entitled-as we to the benefits of a natural and developmental evolution. We who might learn much from 7

them and who might with love aid them in their evolution, offer them not love, not even tolerance, but a philosophy which is exemplified by the steel of the slaughterer's knife and by the bit in the horse's mouth. . . . We cannot, even if we would, escape our kinship with all that lives. We may violate it—as we do—but in the end we shall learn that the price of violation is paid not by the animals alone, but also by the soul of man."

A TOAST TO THE FUTURE " A completely satisfactory food for any baby." This phrase is taken from the leaflet " Feeding baby on Plamil plantmilk" which is enclosed with this magazine and, as so often theoretical advice is divorced from practical application, it is perhaps opportune to remind readers that the writer is able to speak from personal experience. My wife and I have brought up our three young children as vegans, and they have thrived on Plamil since it first became available on the market in 1965. We know of a four month old baby who enjoys a very healthy existence— thanks to Plamil—in fact a health visitor at the Clinic she attends (for weight recording, etc.) has remarked how the baby—Julie— makes such an impact; by virtue of her vitality and general " healthiness ". May we now give a special toast to Heather Barwick of Harrogate, who first honoured us with her presence in this world on January 30th, 1967. Her mother, Mrs. Shirley Barwick, supplemented her breast feeding of Heather with Plamil from the third week of Heather's life, and Plamil became Heather's sole source of " milk " from six weeks of age. The lucky father, Mr. George Barwick, has drawn up an illuminating record chart showing that Heather has got off to a flying start in life, and reports that she weighs 23 lbs. in her thirty-seventh week. Doubtless you will be reading more about Heather in the future. We must surely crown her the vegan baby of 1967! Who is going to be the vegan baby of 1968? Do please let me know because it is important to build up " case l a w " on vegan babies. The vegan movement is indeed fortunate in having so much young blood in its ranks, and this augurs well for the future. The only justifiable criticism that can be made of a vegan is that he is perhaps a little ahead of time! One Health Food Store proprietor in writing to me recently stated that he considered Plamil was about a year ahead of its time, in the sense that whereas it was a comparatively unknown product today (i.e., to the world at large) he could visualise the time when Plamil would be an integral part of thepantry in the homes of all humanitarians and food reformers. This proprietor has fore8

sight—even to the extent of becoming a shareholder in the Company! " Where there is no vision the people perish! " The future is also with the vegan from, a dietetic viewpoint. Most health magazines these days stress the importance of the unsaturated fatty acid aspect of foodstuffs—by the possible association of saturated fatty acids with the No. 1 killer of today—thrombosis. It is significant to note that cow's milk contains as high as 60% saturated fatty acids, and as low as 4% essential unsaturated fatty acids. We can be assured that the £3 million publicity drive by the National Dairy Council this year will not focus attention on this analytical data! Oh! if only the Vegan Society had a fraction of this sum to enlighten the public. Oh! if only my Company had the benefit of State subsidies, such as the dairy farmers enjoy, we could produce Plamil without such heavy overheads. The subsidies do not, of course, end with the dairy farmer. The expectant mother, and a child up to the age of five years, are able to obtain a pint of cow's milk every day at a considerably reduced rate. Why shouldn't the vegan mother and child be able to enjoy the same monetary benefit? Perhaps this is something to be worked for in 1968. C. A . LING. MISS

FASHION

IS S O

CRUEL,

SAYS

RECTOR

" The world of haute-couture or whatever you call it," said Preb. Geoffrey Lester, Rector of Bath Abbey, " is a cruel, sensual, ridiculous sub-Christian world indeed. Cruel because in order to keep little Miss High Fashion up to the mark in mink or moleskin or seal or sable, they have to massacre so many, much more beautiful creatures than little Miss High Fashion will ever be." In his sermon at the Abbey recently, Preb. Lester asked, " Did you realise that as many as 20 million skins are required by the fur trade in a single season? If you were to visit a mosque in a Mohammedan country you would probably be asked to remove your shoes before they let you in. Perhaps it would be a good idea if we refused to allow anyone into Bath Abbey who was wearing a fur coat. We need to recollect sometimes how cruel and how corrupt is the world of fashion. Not because it is so pitiful, so laughable, with its slinky, kinky, kookie baby talk, and its adult-kindergarten vocabulary. But because the fashion world represents the ultimate antitheses to Christian living and Christian doings ; because it is a world surrounded by mirrors ; it is an ego-boosting world centred upon self." 9

DEAR

SANTA

Bring me no boudoir lamps this year: No bookends carved in jade; No watch; no ring; no lavallierre; No gown of rich brocade. Bring me no sterling tableware; And no Venetian glass; No stainless steel! no matching pair Of bowls in hammered brass. Bring me no mink; no skirt bouffant; No fancy lingerie; A list of things I really want I made for you today. Bring me pecan and cherry trees. About a dozen each; A hundred " best varieties " Of apricot and peach. And bring me several kinds of plumsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Some green; some red; some blue And, long before the springtime comes. An apple tree or two. Perennials and shrubs are still A year or two away; And seeds and bulbs must wait until Another, later day. Because my dearest love is trees. Though other things have charm For forty years I wanted these . . . At last I have a farm! Now if you think my list is strange And substitute for me I warn you that I shall exchange Each item for a tree! MILDRED BREEDLOVE.

VEGAN

SOCIETYâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;LOCAL

BRANCHES

We had intended to print the names of members, district by district, so that vegans can more easily get in touch with fellow members and, we hope, form new branches of the Society (see Autumn, 1967). We still feel this would be a good idea (only three people have asked to be excluded) but rather space-consuming. It has therefore been held over until next year and in the meantime we have heard from our member, Richard Newton, that he would be glad to form a local group in his area. So will 10

anyone living near enoug please write to Mr. Newton at Henley-in-Arden, Solihull, Warwicks. Of course, all branches will have the full support and very best wishes of the Vegan Society. Will any other prospective branch organiser please write to the Secretary. Such work will greatly help the spread of veganism and therefore, the reduction of animal suffering.

TRANSPORT

AND

SLAUGHTER

The Council of Justice to Animals and Humane Slaughter Association has done excellent work in reforming some of the most cruel practices connected with butchery. Several hidden practices have been uncovered and published, and efforts made to stop or mitigate them. Sometimes these have been successful. An extract from a letter recently received from this Society exposes another practice of animal exploitation: — " Groups of livestock producers have broken into the European calf trade with the sale of two to three-week-old calves. Hundreds of these unfortunate creatures are taken by air from Lydd and Lympne airports in Kent to Ostend to be fattened for beef, but there is a large market on the Continent for veal. " It does not require much imagination to realise the suffering to which these immature calves are subjected on such long journeys—some of them travel hundreds of miles to the airport. " As there are no English inspectors in the importing country there is no knowing how far they have to travel from the point of disembarkation or what their fate will be at the end of the journey. Whether for beef or veal they will be slaughtered in a foreign slaughterhouse. " To export such young calves is a disgrace to a civilised country and should be stopped before it develops into a regular trade with other countries."

PLAMIL® FUDGE This H O M E - M A D E S T Y L E confection is delicious! It comes from the firm which makes PLAMIL plant milk and PLAMIL Chocolate—the only firm which makes VEGAN FOODS ONLY PLANTMILK Ltd. • Langley • Bucks. 11

FOOTWEAR NEWS We are pleased (and not a little relieved) to learn that the response to the Bata Booklet of " ViVa " shoes has been satisfactory and that as a result Messrs. Bata will be able to continue this special service. The men's shoes in particular have exceeded our expectations—though not our hopes! The Clarino poromeric material from which the uppers are made is giving great satisfaction. New styles will *be added as the demand — your demand — justifies it. ViVa shoes are not yet in all the Bata shops but keep asking for them if you would like them to be. In the meantime remember that the Beauty Without Cruelty Boutique at 49 Upper Montagu Streeet, W.I., holds stocks and if you cannot get them, order by post from Tilbury using the special order form in your booklet. We have still a good supply of these booklets and forms, why not send for a supply for your friends. You do not have to be a vegetarian to wear humanely produced footwear! The I.C.I.'s full-scale manufacturing plant for their poromeric upper material, Ortix, which is under construction at Skelton-inCleveland, near Middlebrough, is expected to come on stream in mid-1968. This will coincide with the big build-up in the sale of shoes with man-made uppers which the experts forecast after analysing the latest figures from the Board of Trade's statisticians ; in the April-June period they went up to 6.5 pairs from 4.1 m. pairs in the same period of 1966, and in July manufacturers' sales of these shoes zipped to 1,426,000 pairs from 778,000 a year earlier. Currently, output from the pilot plant is being maintained "at around 25,000 square feet a month. Much of this is going to Norvic for their " Topflite " range. Extensive wear trials have and still are being carried out. General reaction to shoes with uppers of Ortix is good, say the I.C.I, development team. Their statement: " W e are satisfied that women will be more comfortable in shoes made of Ortix than in the same style made in leather," is an indication of the confidence they have in their material, which has been dveloped as the result of most painstaking analysis of the qualities required in a shoe upper material by both manufacturer and wearer. One of the qualities of Ortix which they believe will commend it to the public—at this stage, women, as the material is made only in that weight—is its ability to retain not merely its shape but, visually more important, its newness. Tests, they say, have showed that a leather shoe loses its " new look " after ten days' wear. With Ortix, the period is considerably longer. 12

Norvic Shoes Several manufacturers are using " Ortix " but Norvic seem to be the first to get shoes of this material into their shops. In the Norvic " Topflite " range there are five styles and several colours. These all have non-leather soles, and, because of their " breathability " ensure foot health. (Jniroyal A range of gay sandals and mules will be in the shops shortly under the brand name SOL' MATESâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for men and women. These are all vegan. Dunlop Apart from a delightfully cosy, fleece-lined slipper for men, this company have produced a house shoe with simulated leather upper, composition sole and softly padded lining in sizes for men and women. Colours are bright red or tan and they are in stock at the Boutique. Treat yourself to an after-Christmas present which will give pleasure the year round. It is evident that some of our readers have been thinking deeply about the claims made by the manufacturers of poromeric upper and lining materials. " What about the adhesive?" one correspondent asked, " would not the bonding of the two materials destroy its ability to allow air to pass?" This has not been overlooked and a special adhesive has been perfected which is coated in such a way that resilience and breathing in the finished article is not impaired. (Don't ask me to explain the method, I only know it is a hot-melt procedure using certain vinyl resins. I think we must accept the word of the manufacturer that it is successful; they claim it also resists rot and perspiration damage, but then it would if it is really poromeric), A warning to beware of cheap imitations of Clarino poromeric upper material has been issued to the shoe trade and the public by the British United Shoe Machinery Co., U.K. agents for Clarino. Some shoes made of a cheap non-poromeric rubberised plastic, bearing the Clarino trade mark prominently on the seat sock, have been shown to the company. They were apparently made in Hong Kong. Clarino, a top-selling man-made upper material, is manufactured in Japan by Kurashiki Rayon Co., who have sold no Clarino to Hong Kong at any time. Needless to add that the " Clarino" shoes on sale in the Boutique are genuine Clarino! Somervell Bros. Ladies' shoes in the Polly Flinders range include: "Antigua," " Myriad," " Masquerade," and " Scandall III." All in various shades of Pattina Patent at 6 9 / l i d . 13

" Masquerade " is also available in Tan " Clarino " at the same price. " R i c h a r d " in the Rainmasters range comes in black or brown, 6 9 / l i d . None of the above have any leather components. Equity Shoes From all Co-operative Footwear Stores, and elsewhere. Three court styles for ladies with " Clarino" (poromeric) uppers and without leather in any part. No. 1031 in black, brown, blue or camel " Clarino" Bow trimmed court with 2^in. heel. Size 2—8. No. 1033, a similar style with alternative trim. Details as 1031. This company is introducing a wide-fitting, low-heeled, lace front walking shoe with microcellular sole and Clarmo upper. Sizes 2—8. It is probably in the shops now. If you are enquiring about it, the part number of its pigskin equal is 326. From the illustration I am sure it would be a very comfortable style. Timpson Shoe Shops Plain fronted lace shoes or brogue casuals in black or brown Clarino, 69/11. Note. Leather is used for the back part of the lining. Poromeric lining (necessary if poromeric uppers are to be 100 per cent, satisfactory!) are now in use. Some of them are Ceef 86, Porolux, Poron, Skin fit., etc. The latter is the one responsible for the extra snug comfort in some of the " ViVa " shoes. During the year Quox, Cirrus and Buocado have all been improved to meet the demand of the discriminating buyer of non-leather shoes. Messrs. Norvic'assure us that it is their intention to introduce new models in quality man-made materials in the future. If shopping for " Velvon " boots take care to enquire closely about the linings, this is sometimes real sheepskin, although otherwise the boot is of man-made materials. A member sends us the information that Junetti Shoes of 102B Cranbrook Road, Ilford, Essex, have a good range of non-leather shoes. We have no details, however, neither have we seen them ourselves. Ceevil New, good quality shoe materials are being announced almost weekly. Freudenberg's (German) new material has now been named, though it is not poromeric as originally announced in the trade press, but it is highly absorbent—up to 47% of its own. weight is-claimed. An excellent lining from the same company CEEF 86, is poromeric, however. 14

Another upper material from Germany is " Orolette," poromeric—with a fine-grained, kid-like finish—it comes in beautiful pastel.shades, and is suitable for the light-weight " pretty " shoe. Watch also for shoes of " Pushkin " although they will not be ready for some months. FASHION NOTE FROM NEW YORK TRADE SHOW Sky's the Limit Hip length boots (with garters attached) made in stretch vinyl. Full length jewelled boots (jewels on all kinds of footwear), and perspex heels. (These made a brief apppearance here about ten years ago but were not then popular.) We are happy to be able to add several new lines to the B.W.C. range of vegan cosmetics which contain no harmful chemicals: — Hair Spray in two strengths, Soft Hold or Firm Hold. Madonna Lily Talcum, with a really delightful perfume in an attractive new white container. Also two new toilet soaps, Green Carnation and Blue Rose; and for men, Pre-shave, Aftershave and Deodorant. All the B.W.C. products make, useful " reminder " gifts as each is individually marked " no creature has suffered to provide this cosmetic." £ g DEED OF COVENANT The Vegan Society, feeing a charity, is not liable to income tax. Supporters who pay income tax at the full rate and who are prepared to complete a Seven-Year Covenant, to pay ah annual sum to the Vegan Society, can substantially increase the value to the Vegan Society of their annual payment. For instance, if a supporter gave £2 2s. Od. per annum, the Vegan Society can recover income tax from the Inland Revenue of £1 9s. 6d. and so in proportion for larger or smaller payments. In the event of death the covenant terminates at once. For further information and Form e to: The Treasurer, Mrs. Grace Smith, , London, N.14. CORRECTION We are reminded by one of our members that one should not send letters by air to the Continent as was suggested in the last issue. This may even delay them. They sihould be posted in the ordinary way with a ninepenny stamp, when they will go by the quickest possible method, says the Post Office. This includes Russia and all the countries behind the Iron Curtain. 15

INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOF 1966 £ 55 73 99 9

EXPENDITURE

£ Secretarial Expenses and Duplicating Secretary's Salary Postage, Stationery and Telephone General Advertising Literature Honorariums: Audit Treasurer

4 8 290

218

s. d.

£ s. d 17 13 ' 151 0 C 115 8 1C 16

30 14

10 10 25 0 35 10 5 5

Annual General Meeting Annual Dinner ... " The Vegan " cost of printing ... 31 Less Income from Sales £42 41 Less Advertisements £110

521

152

2 0

368 19 Donations: Nature Cure.Clinic ... International Vegetarian Union Vegetarian Nutritional Centre . Vegetarian Children's Charity 2 285

5 2 3 10

Animals Fair Bank Charges (Cheque Book) ... Miscellaneous Excess of Income over Expenditure

0 2 3 0

0 0 0 0 20 5 5 10 5 7 6

0 0 0 0

£760

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 1966 £

LIABILITIES

£ ACCUMULATED

1,122 10

£1,132

s. d.

FUND

Balance at 30th September, 1966 Sundry Creditors ... Deduct—Excess of Expenditure over Income ...

1,122

25 15

£1,096 10

I have prepared the above Balance Sheet together with the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended September 30th, 1967, from the

THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30th, 1967 1966

INCOME

£ 368 271 50 18 4 28 2 12 7 — —

£ s. d. 290 2 9 312 2 6

Subscriptions Donations Legacy Literature Refreshments Dividends (net) Profit on realization of Investments Badges (Profit on Sales) Food Guide Bank Interest (Deposit A / c ) Animals Fair Miscellaneous Excess of Expenditure over Income

62 0 2 0 12 10 17 1 5 7 14 23 3 19 4 10 3 17 3 25 15 0

£773 19

SEPTEMBER 30th, 1967 ASSETS

s. d.

INVESTMENTS AT C O S T STOCKS AT C O S T —

2 17 102 22

" The Vegan " Food Guide Literature Vegan Badges SUNDRY

6 0 6 5 95 12 16 6

0 0 3 3

190 6 47 14

3 5

124

238

734

£1.096 10

DEBTORS—

Sale of 150 Lambert Bros. Ltd. Shares for settlement on 10th Oct., 1967 Miscellaneous ... • BALANCES AT B A N K —

156 506

Current Account Deposit Account

205 529

3 9 2 10

books and vouchers of the Vegan Society and certify that they agree according to the information and explanations given me. (Signed)

MONTAGU

HAINES.

POINT AND COUNTERPOINT The new " Flora" margarine made by Van den Berghs says clearly on the label that it is made from the finest vegetable oils. Can I take it, then, that it is fully vegan ? No, an enquiry to the firm resulted in being told it contains a tiny proportion of skimmed milk powder. Van den Berghs confirm, though, that their margarine " T o m o r " is 100% free from animal ingredients, and that rumours spread by unscrupulous grocers to the effect that they have ceased making it, are untrue. Health Food Stores stock it as before. (Also " Golden Block " is vegan.) Is there a non-animal material for repairing my non-animal shoes ? The firm of "Phillips Patents Ltd.", Dantzig Street, Manchester 4, say that there is no animal matter in any of their products, nor in any of the chemical treatments used during manufacture. This is the firm which is famous for their " Stick-a-Soles ", which can be fitted to shoes already soled with rubber or resin. Alternatively, shoes can be soled with " Phillips " Resin Rubber Soles or soles cut from " Phillips " Rubber Sheeting. 1 understand that shoemakers have already used certain compound plastic materials for soling for several years, though the customer may not always have been aware of it. Latest request from my family is " Cakes and a pudding without baking powder "—can you offer any suggestions ? ROOTAM CAKE

4 oz. vegan margarine oz. raw Barbadoes sugar 2 oz. almonds

2 oz. arrowroot 2 oz. 81% plain flour

METHOD: Cream the fat, add all other ingredients, set to and stir and beat energetically for not less than seven minutes or put through electric mixer. Put into a seven inch tin with removable bottom (available inexpensively from chain stores), bake in a moderately hot-oven (380° or Regulo No. 5) for thirty minutes, then change to a moderate oven (340° or No. 4) for a further twenty-three minutes. The surface should only be a light, NOT a dark brown. Leave till cool before removing from tin. Double this mixture baked in two tins makes a nice cake by combining the two with jam or almond cream (or both!), and could then be iced and decorated with jellied fruits or walnut halves or grated chocolate. 18

The cake can also be cut into fingerlength strips with a sharp knife (this must be done while still warm), and half of the strips could be dipped into melted chocolate, then sprinkled with ground almonds. PIXIE CAKE

| oz. dried yeast 1 oz. vegan margarine 1 gill vegan milk 1 oz. Suenut or Shortex \ teaspoon raw Barbadoes 1 oz. raw Barbadoes sugar sugar pinch of salt 8 oz. 81% plain flour 5 oz. seedless raisins METHOD: Warm the milk till lukewarm, add the \ teaspoon sugar and yeast, leave to stand for ten minutes. In the meantime, combine fat and all other ingredients. (The easiest method is to rub the fats over a grater, but they have to be hard for this.) Aerate the yeast mixture with a fork and strain into the baking bowl. Combine gently and put into a six inch cake tin with removable bottom. Cover, and either put into oven on ^ or whatever is your lowest temperature, or on top of the stove if oven is being used. Leave for forty-five or sixty minutes, checking in between to make sure that the mixture is rising but not overflowing. Remove the cover and bake at Regulo No. 6 or 400째 F. for twenty-five minutes, a further twenty minutes on Regulo 5 or 370째, and another ten minutes on 4 or 350째. Leave to get cold in the tin before removing. FRUIT SYRUP BABA

4 oz. 81% plain flour \ gill vegan milk pinch of salt 2 teaspoons arrowroot oz. fresh or half the 2 teaspoons soya flour amount of dried yeast \ gill water teaspoons sugar 2\ oz. vegan margarine Any fruit syrup, or part of a small bottle of Carella (Acerola Cherry Syrup, which costs 2 / l i d . , is rich in vitamin C, and is available from Health Food Stores). METHOD: Warm the milk till tepid, add the \ teaspoon of sugar, combine with yeast and leave to stand. Melt the fat gently and remove to cool, but not to get solid again. Aerate yeast with fork and strain into the flour, cover with a cloth and put into a warm place for half an hour, then combine with all other ingredients and beat with a wooden spoon till the mixture ceases to be sticky. Half fill your chosen moulds, which shouid be slightly warmed and dusted with flour, and could be: Dariole moulds, four inch " Yorkshire pudding " moulds (sold in a sheet holding four), or a very pleasing effect is obtained by using ring moulds. Put into the oven at the lowest temperature available, or on top of the stove, for thirty minutes or till the mixture has about doubled in bulk. 19

Bake in a hot oven (Regulo 6 or 380° to 450° F.), for fifteen to twenty minutes. Remove from tin, prick with fork, and carefully baste with fruit syrup. If not needed immediately, leave in tins and re-heat in a steamer, or covered with greaseproof paper in a casserole in the oven, leave adding the fruit syrup till wanted. If ring moulds are used, it is better to remove from tin, dish on an ovenproof plate, and fill the inside with fresh or tinned fruit when serving. It is true that cooking with yeast needs a little time, but less than it looks, as there is an opportunity to get on with other jobs while waiting for the dough to rise, and it is very rewarding, as the result is literally satisfying WITHOUT upsetting a healthy diet with great quantities of starch. L . DAVIS.

All the above recipes have been tried and secretary.—ED.

NEW JOURNAL ON PLANT

tested by the

FOODS

During the last twelve months the committees of the Vegetarian Nutritional Research Centre and the Science Council of the International Vegetarian Union (S.C.I.V.U.) have been considering how to ensure that S.C.I.V.U. abstracts of scientific articles about plant foods shall achieve a satisfactory circulation amongst scientists, medical men and others interested in health and nutrition. The original intention was to publish these abstracts in the British Vegetarian and circulate reprints amongst those interested. But at the end of 1966, when volunteers had been preparing abstracts for nearly a year, room had been found in the British Vegetarian for only about forty abstracts and it was clearly necessary to seek a better avenue of publication with a wider scope. The idea was then formed of starting an entirely new journal, under the control of the Research Centre, not only to deal with abstracts (about 500 a year were envisaged initially) but also to contain original articles and reviews about plant foods. Support was promised from experts in different countries who are actively engaged in investigations on plant foods for human nutrition. Lord Boyd Orr, formerly Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, has kindly sent a goodwill message to be published in the first number. Pergamon Press, an international organisation with unequalled facilities for contacting scientists, librarians, teachers and others interested in food problems, offered a contract on favourable terms. This, after thorough discussion with, and approval by S.C.I.V.U., was signed at the end of October. 20

Full details of this important project are given in the Research Centre's Quarterly Bulletin No. 7, which also contains an application form for a complimentary copy of the first number, which is expected to be launched next spring. Any member of the Vegan Society who is interested in these can obtain them by sending a stamped addressed foolscap envelope to the Secretary, Vegetarian Nutritional Research Centre, 1 Ellwood Gardens, Garston, Watford, Herts. Reminder from the Magazine Secretary. CHANGE OF ADDRESS Will members who are moving please - let Miss Larkins have their new address as soon as possible to avoid delay in delivery of the magazine. EATING OUT The popular vegetarian Health Food Restaurant, Cranks Salad Table, opened in Carnaby Street seven years ago, and only two years later it was found necessary to open Cranks 2 around the corner for quick self-service lunches. Then Cranks Health Food shop nearby, and, in 1965 Cranks Wholemeal Bakery. And then, towards the end of 1967, larger premises in London were necessary causing a move to Marshall Street, W.l, where Cranks shops and the restaurant are now in the one building. Cranks Wholemeal Bakery remains in Newburgh Street. The extra space enables a wider range of savouries to be offered and more hot meals can now be served. We are assured that vegan alternatives such as vegetable milks and vegan margarine will always be available and the waitresses understand vegan requirements and are able to advise customers with regard to egg-and-milkless savouries, etc. As before only vegetarian cooking fats and thickening agents are used. (We might here remind our readers that white sugar and bleached flour are never used, and only Biochemic or sea salt served.) Although of the utmost importance, food is not, however, the beginning and end of Cranks. The modern (and chromeless) decor has always been greatly admired and a similar theme prevails in the new building. Plus underfloor heating and fresh air circulation. The popularity of Cranks is a sign that an increasing number of people are appreciative of " whole" vegetarian foods, but mostly it is the hard work and enthusiasm of the proprietors David and Kay Canter and Daphne Swann, which has ensured the success of " Cranks " and earned them the appreciation and good wishes of their many customers and friends. 21

We look forward to meeting some of our members in the new Cranks, as we have done so often in Carnaby Street. The Raw Deal Salad Buffet in York Street, W.l (see Autumn " V e g a n " ) , is now open until 10 p.m. for suppers. New. Mrs. Carole Lester sends in a very good report of the Salad Centre, Post Office Road, Bournemouth, Hants. She writes: — " The proprietor, Miss Cameron, is very helpful and the Salad Centre is a really modern up to date vegetarian restaurant. The food is excellent and it is all displayed in buffet style, and includes a variety of mixed salads, freshly extracted juices and baked potatoes in their jackets." New Health Store A member writes that a good range of vegan foods are stocked at 34 Corbets Pey Road, Upminster (opposite Gaynes Cross Post Office), including Plamil and Granogen and the proprietors are very helpful. THE I.V.U. A report from Thelma Larkin, of her attempts to get to the International Vegetarian Union Congress in India, which will give some idea of the difficulties involved. Early in 1967 the Committee asked me to represent our Society at the I.V.U. Congress to be held in India this November. During the summer the delegates who had agreed to form a party from Great Britain were asked to send their deposit to the secretary. The estimated cost at that time was approximately £200. Some people who had originally agreed to go did not take up the option so Mr. Rudd was unable to book the charter plane as planned—and the trip was off. In August I was advised that it was " on " again for those willing and able to pay an extra £52 (this would be a charter package deal for a smaller party than first planned). Again I agreed to go. In October we were told we could not go unless we were vaccinated so again it was " off ". Later the same month we were informed that if we went to Delhi and Madras only, we could go without vaccination; permission having been obtained from the Medical Officer at London Airport. So it was "go" again. Last stage! On Thursday, 9/11/67 " s t o p " again! Cannot go now as Air India will not fly us without vaccination. By this time I was feeling like a Jack in the Box. At the A.G.M. on 11/11/67 we discovered that our vegan member Mr. Gunn-King will be trying to go by a British Air Line, and he kindly agreed to represent us as well as the other two societies he is representing. So we may have a delegate after all. 22

At least, I hope so, and wish him a very wonderful time in India. THELMA LARKJN.

HANDS ACROSS THE CURTAIN Mr. Vladimer Filip has beenâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and gone. Perhaps we may quote a little from one of his long and enthusiastic letters: â&#x20AC;&#x201D; " . . . I would like to take this opportunity to thank those unknown members of the Vegan Society who made it all possible. The days I spent at Coombe Lodge belong to the nicest ones in my life . . . especially thanks to the golden heart of its owner Mrs. Keleny, who, with her sincere and warm friendliness towards all guests, makes the stay of each individual guest indeed very enjoyable. The most appetising meals revealed to me much of her expert cooking art. I especially appreciate her motherly approach to my somewhat unusual appetites. The sudden switch from my East-European diet to the English vegan one was for me at the beginning a bit difficult. But Mrs. Keleny had proved deep understanding and helped me to adapt myself. I accustomed myself to all the served food (some kinds were quite new and unknown to me). " Very interesting also were special lectures given in the evenings by experts on various questions in connection with the vegetarian and vegan way of living. They were usually highly informative and contained rare ideas. Some of the lectures, as for example that one given by the Bristol barrister, Mr. Cur tier, or the one given by Dr. Keleny were really unforgetable. Also interesting cine performances by Mrs. Keleny of her vegetarian lecture tours in different parts of the world. Film performances were of special interest for me, citizen of a country, where, until recently, travelling to foreign countries was for many years officially banned. I acquired some good ideas, that I shall try to enforce in my home conditions. What I do miss most, is that vast selection of various food products, for which we do not have equivalent in our country. After my ' English experience' I shall try to influence our competent places to put on the market some new products, but believe me, that in our conditions it will be a difficult task. " I came away with a feeling of deep thankfulness to all the vegan members who had enabled it for me, and also to' Mrs. and Dr. Keleny, for making my visit at their charming home so enjoyable. I would be pleased if you would be so kind as to adapt my letter of thanks to be suitable to be printed in the next issue of the vegan magazine. I would like to say 1 Thank you ' to all those who helped me to come to England for this short, but unforgettable stay." From the programme of Mr. Filip's activities we are satisfied 23

that not one moment of his precious ten days was wasted. He attended lectures, cookery classes, a talk on Beauty Without Cruelty and herbs, made a brass rubbing in Minchinhampton Church, enjoyed a " Hungarian " party, a pop music evening, visited all the places of local interest—Bristol, Dursley, Severn Bridge, Chepstow Castle; went shopping in Cheltenham, took a lot of pictures and long walks with the other guests, and after all that, managed to squeeze in a week-end in London as the guest of Kathleen's friends. Kathleen writes: — " He had a great send off from the other guests here, he was an extremely happy visitor, loved everything and everyone, England, our ways, customs, freedom, roads— everything."

MELANGELL'S LAMBS—A Legend Brochwel, the Prince of Powys, upon a certain day in the year of our Lord 604, was hunting in a place called Pennant. His hounds startled a hare, and pursued it into a dense thicket. Following them into the thicket, he saw a beautiful maiden on her knees praying devoutly to God. The hare was lying on the folds of her garment, facing the hounds boldly. The Prince shouted, " Catch her, catch her! " but the more he urged his hounds on, the further did they retreat, and at last they fled away, howling with terror. The Prince, astonished at the strange behaviour of his hounds, turned. to the maiden and asked her who she was. " I am the daughter of a King of Ireland ", she answered, " and because my father desired to wed me to one of his chiefs, I fled from my native soil, and, God guiding me, came to this desert place, where for fifteen years I have served God without seeing the face of any man ". The Prince enquired her name, and she replied that she was called Melangell (the Latin form of the name is Monacella). Thereupon the Prince broke forth in these words, " O most worthy Melangell, I perceive that thou art the handmaid of the true God. Because it has pleased Him for thy merits to give protection to this little wild hare from the attack and pursuit of the ravening hounds, I give and present to thee with willing hands these my lands for the service of God, to be a perpetual asylum and refuge. If any men or women flee hither to seek thy protection, provided they do not pollute thy sanctuary, let no prince or chieftain be so rash "towards God as to attempt to drag them forth! Melangell passed the rest of her days in this lonely place, sleeping on bare rock. Many were the Miracles which she wrought for those who sought refuge in her sanctuary with pure hearts. The little wild hares were ever under her special protection and that is why they are called " Melangell's Lambs ". Even now, if a hare is pursued by hounds and someone shouts after it, " God and Melangell be with thee ", it will escape. 24

RECENT MEETING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES The Beauty Without Cruelty London Fashion Show at the Rembrandt Hotel in October, once again attracted many people and the quality of the garments surprised those who were paying their first visit. Every year brings considerable improvements in the range and quality of (non) furs, and this year we were very pleased to note that the models were wearing "ViVa" brand or other non-leather shoes. Both coats and footwear were indistinguishable from the animal products in everything but price. Several new items have been added to the range of crueltyfree cosmetics and toiletries, and these are listed on another page. JEWISH VEGETARIAN SOCIETY The visitors to the " Nuts and Wine " party organised by the Jewish Vegetarian Society enjoyed a social and interesting evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Feldman in Richmond, on September 24th. Mr. Peter Rees, of the Highways Restaurant, Regent Street, had thoughtfully included some excellent vegan savouries and Wing-Commander Zigmund, an expert in the field, regaled us with facts and stories about various wines—with samples. We were sorry not more of our members were able to go to the Annual Buffet and Ball, organised by the same Society, on Sunday, November 12th, at the new Community Centre in Hampstead. Those of us who managed to get along had a most enjoyable evening and the vegan refreshments — which included avocado pears—were excellent. Members are reminded that by the courtesy of the Jewish Vegetarian Society they may enjoy the special reduced rates afforded to their own members at all functions run by the J.V.S. Just state, when writing for tickets, that you are a member of the Vegan Society. THE SCIENCE COUNCIL OF THE INTERNATIONAL VEGETARIAN UNION I was one of the half a dozen onlookers who were privileged to attend the British S.C.I.V.U. Council meeting which was held at Queen Elizabeth College, London, on the morning of July 15th. Dr. Bircher was in the chair and representatives from Austria, Holland, Switzerland and the United Kingdom discussed the S.C.I.V.U. activities. The knowledge of specific books, written on a scientific basis, was shared and a great deal of time was given to the desirability of producing a quarterly journal which would give information concerning, plant foods to the scientists concerned in alleviating the famine stricken countries. Dr. Wokes stated that he would be willing to act as editor and 25

I am sure vegans everywhere will wish him success in. this new venture. This may also be the right moment when we can take the opportunity of thanking him for all the help that he has given both to this society and to the world. A vegan and vegetarian lunch was served, buffet fashion, in the beautiful grounds of the university when it was possible for members to learn more of each other and speak of their private hopes for the future welfare of the world. Over sixty people attended the afternoon session which was open to the public and devoted to the role of plant foods in solving the world food problem with special emphasis on the economic aspects. The speakers all demonstrated their talks with large scale diagrams which facilitated the understanding of the lay members present. Energy requirements were dealt with by J. Lucas, B.Sc., F:R.I.C.; proteins were discussed by F. W: Norris, D.Sc.; essential minerals and vitamins were subjects for Alan Long, Ph.D., V.N.R.C., and F. Wokes, Ph.D., F.R.I.C., V.N.R.C. Dr. Woodhams spoke on " How the International Biological Programme can help ". The chairman, Dr. E. F. Schumacher, is Economic Adviser to the National Coal Board and I felt that the country is fortunate to have such a man in that position. I am sure that, had time allowed, many would have liked to hear more from him especially when he reminded us that there is a Soil Association and it is with the soil that we have to begin our purification. . SERENA COLES.

FRIDAY A T THE ANIMAL FAIR Was it.imagination or were there fewer stalls at the Animal Fair this year? Or perhaps there were fewer people? There certainly seemed to be more room to move. Our arrangement was different as we had a table only instead of a stall with shelves. This was a cheaper proposition of course and the main disadvantage appeared to be that we could not hoist our vegan banner high in the air as on previous occasions. As usual our home-made cookies soon sold out and the bridge rolls and fruit drinks did a roaring trade. Unfortunately we were unable to show any shoes this year owing to the indisposition of Mrs. Batt who generally keeps us supplied with these. After school hours quite a number of youngsters invaded us for fruit drinks. To one I asked whether he liked animals and he enthusiastically replied that he did and, when I followed the question with another asking whether he ate them, he pulled a face and said, " Oh no ". I then enquired whether he ate meat and his astonishment when T pointed out that he was eating dead animals had to be seen to be believed. Later I ;26

tried the same tactics with another lad and met with the same experience. It left me with the feeling that, in spite of the money being spent on education, we are letting down our younger generation. If they are not taught how to live healthy and kindly lives they will be making the same mistakes as have our generation. A heartening experience was to meet the clergyman who had been a vegetarian for thirteen years but he rather felt that the youngsters will go their own way. I, however, am sure that they can respect him for his views and will realise that he tries to carry them through into his daily way of life. To all the helpers and givers we say a big thank you. SC. COMING EVENTS New Year's Party Organised by The London Vegetarian Society and The Vegetarian Social Club. Saturday, 6th January, 1968. 7.30 p.m. Chenil Galleries, King's Road, Chelsea, S.W.3. (Adjoining Chelsea Town Hall). Tickets, including light refreshments: 8/6d. single; 15/"mixed " double (lady and gentleman). From L.V.S. offices or V.S.C. Committee. Jewish Vegetarian Society Sunday, January 21st, 1968. Second Annual Brains Trust at the Cora Hotel. " Brains " will be Mrs. Jessica Davies, wife of famous T.V. " M a i g r e t " ; Walter Fliess, F.C.F.A., of Salon Culinaire fame ; Joseph Goodman, N.D., D.O.; Barney Goulstone, F.C.A., General Manager of Granose Ltd.; Dr. Douglas Latto, Nutrition expert; Rabbi Joseph Rosenfeld of the Sinai (Federation) Synagogue. In the Chair: P. L. Pick, President of the Jewish Vegetarian Society. Admission: Members 2/6d. Visitors, 5/-. Members of the Vegan Society will be welcome to attend at the special Member's rate. Theosophical Order of Service Social at 50 Gloucester Place, W.I., on Friday, February, 2nd, 1968, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Musical entertainment, 7â&#x20AC;&#x201D;8 p.m. Vegetarian and vegan refreshments. Bring and Buy Stall. Palmistry readings. STOP PRESS Received just too late for this issue: â&#x20AC;&#x201D; News about footwear for men with hi-Telac (poromeric) uppers and guaranteed for twelve months. These are made in Ireland and we have to check the soles and components/ See our next issue for full details. 27

LETTERS

THE

EDITOR

Now that we have excellent blankets, footwear, cosmetics, " m i l k s " and various fortified vegan foods, is it too much to hope for a tasty alternative to butter which we can offer, without apology, to non-vegans? Perhaps the commodities investigator could persuade the manufacturers of vegan margarine (only Golden Block and Tomor now, I believe) to make it a little more palatable? Being a vegan I will not use any of the other " vegetarian " margarines because of the " small quantity "(?) of milk used, we are told, to " improve the flavour ". But surely, in these days of abundant synthetic flavours, could we not have a vegan margarine which tastes sufficiently like butter for us to be able to serve it to guests? Are aU of these chemist-produced flavours dangerous to health? I use cashewnutta, but none of my friends will accept this because of its colour. EDITH BRADFORD.

Southend-on-Sea, Essex. Dear Friends, December again. A month approached with very mixed feelings. A month which, probably more than any other, brings feelings of great sadness to vegetarians, a month when the slaughter of the innocents reaches such a peak that no one can pretend not to notice. Specially fattened animals and birds, slaughtered in their millions, ostensibly to celebrate the birth of a great teacher, but in reality to satisfy man's indulgence in flesh foods. At this time of year vegetarians are " noticed " more than usual by their abstinence from this annual flesh feast although not, of course, from the celebrationsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and we have to decide what line we are to take when asked at the office party " Why do you not eat sausage rolls then?" If it is our first experience of this problem, we may take refuge in a murmer about being a vegetarian, or maybe just something like " I do not think meat is good for my health". This may well be true, indeed it probably is, but is it the real answer to " Why are .you a vegetarian?" I think not. I should like to know what other more experienced vegans do in a case like this, as I am new to this way of life. (Name and address supplied.) A recent letter from a new member, Mr. Harold Matthews, brings an old problem again to the fore, he writes: â&#x20AC;&#x201D; " I wish someone would deal with the very grave (social) difficulties facing all vegans. Once we eliminate dairy foods from our diet, all hotels and restaurants are banned," and " I am simply not prepared (and this is my conscience at work) to make a ccm28

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founded nuisance of myself, or be an embarrassment to others, or to adopt a " Holier than Thou " attitude to my friends who in other ways (i.e., their eating habits apart), may be a hundred times more worthy than me." We can fully sympathise with Mr. Matthews' difficulties but he will surely be encouraged to know they are not insurmountable. Personally, I do not feel barred from public restaurants. One can carefully select the items offered if " eating out " is only occasional. I have sympathy for those who are compelled to do this regularly, especially as nut butters are not easily carried around. This is impossible in the hot weather, although there is now a thermos type of butter dish with clip over lid which could help on some occasions. (Long journeys by sea or air for instanceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the stewards chuckle, but are usually prepared to cooperate even though it gives them a little extra trouble. The same applies to hairdressers, they will use the shampoo you supply if asked). Naturally, our concern, for the unnecessary suffering of food animals, and our conviction that only the vegan way of living can successfully combat the atrocities which occur in the production of dairy products (even when flesh-eating is discontinued), will not always allow us to conform to the accepted pattern of social behaviour. In other words, we might unintentionally hurt the feelings of a friend or relative by not accepting an unsuitable gift or having to say " no thank you " to non-vegan foods. But. I. sincerely hope this gives no one the impression they are adopting a "Holier than T h o u " attitude. I think perhaps Mr. Matthews, still feeling strange in his new way of life, may be just a little bit oversensitive about how his friends will accept his new, and to them probably quite extraordinary, attitude to life. I feel sure he is mistaken however, and will be pleasantly surprised how quickly his friends will accept, and respect his ideas. They invariably do, ours, have. We shall be glad to print other members' comments on Mr. Matthews' problem, and learn how they overcome their " social difficulties." Tyddyn-Angharad. Corwen, Meirionnydd. I am delighted to send you the legend of St. Melangell for publication. This is the very beautiful version given in Jenkyn Thomas's book " The Welsh Fairy Book ". Miss Ruth Plant and Miss Hodgson came to one of the " pilgrimage" services held there this summer and were most impressed. They thought there ought to be a kind of retreat house in such a wonderful spot, indeed that might contribute to our efforts to save it from being submerged for reservoir purposes. T believe a conference of the British Nuclear Energy Society is to 30

Change to 'Alfonal' 'Safety First' Health Foods H e a r t disease now a c c o u n t s f o r m o r e t h a n one o u t of e v e r y two d e a t h s in civilised c o u n t r i e s . In a r e p o r t the A m e r i c a n H e a r t Association says: "The reduction of fat consumption with rea.onable substitution of Poly'Unsaturated fat for Saturated fats is recommended as a possible means of preventing atherosclerosis and decreasing the risks of heart attacks and strokes." T h i s A l f o n a l r a n g e of s a f e , h e a r t helping f o o d s is h o s p i t a l tested a n d medically a p p r o v e d . A s k f o r t h e m b y the b r a n d n a m e s .

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Mr. Kramer, our active member in Holland, has been very busy translating vegetarian articles such as " Comments on Cow's Milk" which was reprinted in the Dutch Vegetarian Messenger. This has created some interest, with the result that he was recently interviewed by a newspaper reporter on the matter of milk v. veganism. As has repeatedly happened in the past, the resulting article, when it appeared, rather ridiculed vegetarian ideas and principles. However, Mr. Kramer did not allow the matter to rest there, and eventually the newspaper agreed to print his letter in which he referred to " Reasons for Veganism ", "Unnecessary Cruelties", " The Vegan" and other writings. Moreover, he says his correspondence with them is by no means closed! It was from just such persistence and refusal to accept defeat, that our Society sprang, and Mr. Kramer, working in such a dairy-minded country has our deepest sympathy and respect. Nevertheless it is probable that, through this publicity, he will meet others who sympathise with vegan ideals. If so, you can be sure he will introduce them to veganism and the Vegan Society! S.O.S. F R O M T H E

SECRETARY

Will the person who sent a 3/- postal order stamped "Canvey Island " please contact Mrs. Davisâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and accept her apologies for having mislaid the address.

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MISCELLANEOUS