​The framework acknowledges that co-operation between doctors and companies that research and provide innovative medicines is important and necessary and also acknowledges their joint responsibilities to govern the conduct of such activities.

It comes at a time when the ABPI is revising its own Code of Practice, which covers pharmaceutical company promotion of prescription medicines to UK healthcare professionals in the UK and the provision of information to the public. While the ABPI code is frequently updated, this is the first of the periodic full reviews since 1993.

The European agreement, entitled Joint Declaration on the Co-operation between the Medical Profession and the Pharmaceutical Industry, was reached between the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME) and the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA).

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