It Depends. Some honey manufacturers find it cheaper to kill off the bees in the autumn rather than feeding them through the winter (since their honey, which is what they'd normally eat through the winter, has been pinched for us to eat). As I understand it, this is more likely the bigger the manufacturer. Yer small-beekeeper is unlikely to do this. After some investigation I have just bought myself some Equal Exchange honey, as they appear to treat their bees well (albeit for strictly practical reasons) - only for medicinal purposes though, i.e. when ill & needing lemon&honey - golden syrup doesn't really cut it! (suspect also that ethically golden syrup is worse than fairtrade honey - it's all a damn moral minefield, I tell you).

And a vegan icon! I need a vegan icon! Or a food icon. Mmm food.