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Animal research

Animal testing plays a vital role in the development of new medicines for patients. It enables us to better understand diseases and evaluate the efficacy and safety of potential new medicines before they are given to humans. We recognise that the use of animals for research purposes is a sensitive subject that commands a high level of public interest.

Much research work can be done using non-animal methods, such as computer modelling and isolated cells and tissues, and we use them wherever possible. However, these methods simply cannot reproduce the complexity of changing the course of a disease in a living creature.

We are committed to maintaining high standards for the humane care and treatment of all laboratory animals. We adhere to all national laws, guidelines and codes of conduct and the company regards these standards as a minimum. In addition, we have our own ethical Code of practice that imposes higher standards and voluntarily undergo independent accreditation of animal care, for example by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation for Laboratory Animal Care.

We are committed to implementing the three Rs - Reducing the use of animals for research, Replacement by non-animals methods whenever possible and Refinement of the techniques used to eliminate or reduce suffering and improve animal welfare. Much preliminary research undertaken by our scientists on new prescription medicines is carried out on isolated tissues and cell cultures rather than animals. Not only is this more humane, it is also a more cost effective way to conduct and sustain research.

We welcome and encourage responsible dialogue about the need for animal research and the care and welfare of the animals used. We condemn organisations and extremists that terrorise people, destroy property and commit other acts of aggression which prevent individuals and organisations from going about their legitimate business. We work closely with law enforcement agencies, government and the scientific community to ensure the safety of our employees and increase security at our facilities. We have implemented initiatives to help employees reduce the risks to themselves and their families.

We publicly engage on this issue, both in terms of providing detailed and accessible information, and also are in dialogue with stakeholders.

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