Development of new pharmacopoeial monographs: the laboratory undertakes the development and validation of qualitative and quantitative test methods for new BP monograph specifications, and refines and revalidates test methods for existing British Pharmacopoeia monographs. British Pharmacopoeia Chemical Reference Substances (BPCRS): the laboratory is responsible for the procurement, establishment, maintenance and sale of BPCRS. The catalogue currently contains nearly 500 BPCRS, which are needed as standards for monograph tests in both the British Pharmacopoeia and the British Pharmacopoeia (Veterinary).