As a contrast to the appallingly dumb judicial decision in the previous post, I offer this as a counter-example:
Greenpeace has lost a High Court battle to restore its status as a charity.
The environmental lobby group was deregistered as a charity last year after the Charities Commission decided it had an overtly political role, particularly in its promotion of peace and disarmament.
The High Court declined Greenpeace’s appeal, saying it is clear the group sees itself as an advocate rather than an educator.
Justice Heath said the group uses non-violent, but potentially illegal, activities to make a point – which are not necessary to educate the public.
The decision means Greenpeace will not be exempt from income tax, a status granted to registered charities.
Makes sense to me – if you are primarily a political lobby group, no matter how noble you think your causes are, you are not a charity.
Especially interesting that this decision has been made in New Zealand, where Greenpeace has a large following, and the sunken Rainbow Warrior is treated as a kind of holy shrine.
The shine is coming off.
