​Taken together with new measures announced last year, the UK now has the tightest anti-extremism legislation anywhere in the world.

"We warmly welcome this new legislation which will enable scientists to go about their legitimate work without fear of intimidation and continue to allow peaceful protest. We shall be working closely with the authorities to monitor the impact of the new measures over the coming months. Coupled with increased police resources this should lead to far fewer attacks in the future" said ABPI Director of Science & Technology, Dr Philip Wright.

"We are extremely pleased the Government has recognised the gravity of this issue and taken these measures to tackle extremist attacks. This Bill also enjoyed the support of all the major political parties - demonstrating a strong commitment to scientific progress and that violence has no place in discourse within an enlightened society."

For further information, please contact: ABPI Press Office 020 7747 1410