Arguments that Buddhism is NOT a religion

There is no belief in God. All the other world faiths are theistic (they believe in God).
There is no belief in a permanent soul or the after-life (for most Buddhists).
It's more of a philosophy of life rather than a religion.
It offers practical advice rather than a commitment to faith in a supreme being.
It is a guide for caring for oneself and others rather than worship of a God.

Arguments that Buddhism IS a religion

Buddhism teaches the Golden Rule – ‘treat others as you want to be treated’ – as do the other world religions: Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Sikhism.
Buddhism promotes peace. It teaches the reality of life, that it’s about how to respond to suffering and difficult situations. Buddhism prohibits violence because of the belief that it only causes more violence, This message was taught not only by the Buddha, but by Abraham (Judaism), Jesus (Christianity), Muhammad (Islam) and Guru Nanak (Sikhism).
Buddhism teaches personal morals and public ethics (right and wrong) just like the other world religions.
Buddhism is seen as a religion under UK law just like Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Sikhism. If the UK government says Buddhism is a religion then who are we to say otherwise?