Phillips' president Dr Stephen Brand said he wants his employees and their suppliers to adhere to the company's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.

"Our employees are not allowed to accept compensation in any form, as well as gifts, favours, transportation, entertainment or privileges beyond a nominal value," he said. "We will not conduct business with anyone encouraging our employees to violate our Code."

Dr Brand added his organisation expects its suppliers to protect any proprietary data that might be shared in the course of doing business with Phillips.