Sports minister Gerry Sutcliffe has announced that UK Anti-Doping (UKAD), the new standalone anti-doping organisation for the UK, is to come into operation on 14 December 2009.

The agency, which will be led by chair David Kenworthy and chief executive Andy Parkinson, will be responsible for ensuring all national governing bodies (NGBs) for sport comply with the World Anti-Doping Code. Kenworthy said: "The new UK anti-doping agency has a sole focus and our aim is simple - to protect the rights of athletes to compete in drug-free sport. By working in partnership with athletes, NGBs, government and law enforcement, we will deliver a clean sporting environment in the run up to 2012 and beyond."

Sutcliffe also announced details of two anti-doping initiatives that are due to be launched in early 2010. A confidential 'Drug Cheats' hotline will be introduced, while a new Athlete Committee will be created to liaise with UKAD and improve links with athletes.