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The team have added rainbow stripes throughout our R&D centre to demonstrate our commitment to diversity and inclusion, which is central to our��ethos��as we strive to meet the diverse needs of our customers, suppliers and other stakeholders.

Following the��lighting up of BAT’s London HQ in rainbow colours��in June, discussions took place between B United – our self-governed global network of LGBTQ+ employees – and the team in Southampton about how to show similar support at our R&D centre. With backing from B United allies including David O’Reilly, Director, Scientific Research and James Barrett, our Group Finance Controller and Group Head of M&A, a bold plan was put in place to incorporate rainbows across the site.

And just a few weeks later, after lots of hard work, the site was awash with colour, inspired by the ‘Philadelphia people of colour inclusive’ version of the LGBTQ+ rainbow flag.

David O’Reilly said: “I am proud to be a part of an organisation that recognises the importance of building a diverse and inclusive workforce. The colours on our buildings symbolise strength of our LGBTQ+ community and how we hope everyone can continue feeling safe and comfortable being their true selves in both Southampton and within BAT. We are proud to B United.”

Jay Morris, Laboratory Manager, added: “The flags in Southampton symbolise the values of solidarity, collectiveness and identity. It’s about ensuring everyone feels welcome and comfortable in their own skin.”