Every GB Olympian and Paralympian to be tested for drugs prior to Games

The number of tests to be carried out by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) remains unknown but every British competitor will be required to provide samples for analysis.

At least 10 per cent of the tests will be blood tests for substances such as human growth hormone and the blood-boosting agent EPO, while more than 100 education sessions for athletes will also be provided alongside the testing programme.

UK Anti-Doping chief executive Andy Parkinson said: “Tests will be planned using our intelligence-based testing approach which utilises intelligence gathered from a wide range of sources and focuses the allocation of tests around where they will have maximum impact in terms of deterrence and detection.

“Whilst the overall aim is to test every member of the British teams at least once, obviously those in more high-risk sports or disciplines, or athletes of interest to us will be tested more often. Essentially there is no limit to the number of times we might test any individual athlete.

“As the host nation at this year’s Olympic and Paralympic Games, we want to lead the way in promoting clean sport, giving the British public the confidence that the performances they see from our athletes are achieved through four years of hard work, determination and dedication.”

The programme is being delivered in co-operation with the sports’ national governing bodies, the British Olympic Association (BOA) and the British Paralympic Association (BPA).

Olympics minister Hugh Robertson said: “UK Anti-Doping has led the way in educating athletes and has one of the most robust anti-doping programmes in the world. But we can’t be complacent. We need to ensure that athletes and support staff are fully aware of their responsibilities with regards to anti-doping.

“Drug cheats have absolutely no place in sport. We want our athletes to be positive role models for the millions who will be watching the Games this summer.”