Peter Roberts Founder of Compassion in World Farming 1924 - 2006 It is with great sadness and sorrow that I write of the death of our founder, Peter Roberts, who passed away peacefully early in the morning of Wednesday 15th November. Peter's wife, Anna, and family were by his side. Peter was a true pioneer. He was a dairy farmer who became appalled at the direction of post-war farming in terms of animal welfare.

In 1967, he set up Compassion In World Farming (CIWF) to rail against the cages and crates that were being used so prevalently to imprison farm animals. He saw CIWF grow from a personal protest in his back room to the leading international force for farm animal welfare that it is now.

CIWF 's first major victory came in 1990, when narrow veal crates for calves were banned in the UK. It is perhaps fitting that in January 2007, this system will also be banned throughout the EU.

Peter was a true visionary. He took up the cause of farm animal welfare at a time when few others shared his concern. He challenged government and industry. He galvanised support, paving the way for the issue to become a widespread concern. He challenged the view that animals were mere 'agricultural products'. In the 1980s, Peter conceived the idea that animals should be granted a new status as 'sentient beings' and started a campaign in Europe. It was to be truly ground-breaking.
In 1997, the EU agreed to legally recognise animal sentience in what is known as the 'Amsterdam Protocol', signalling an official sea change in attitudes to animals.

Peter was and remains truly inspirational. His strength, compassion and humility have inspired a legion of people across the world to give voice to the suffering of farm animals. His legacy of change is immense. His approach and determination lives on in CIWF.

Our sincerest thoughts and sympathy are with Peter's family at this time. We give heartfelt thanks to Peter for a lifetime of inspiration, compassion and love to all sentient creatures.

If you would like to send cards or other wishes to Peter's family, please feel free to send them through to Compassion in World Farming and we will make sure that the family receive them.

PHILIP LYMBERY
Chief Executive
16th November 2006

Obituaries & Messages Of Condolence