Interim Results

RNS Number : 2724A

British American Tobacco PLC

31 July 2008

 



31 July 2008

INTERIM REPORT TO 30 JUNE 2008

SUMMARY

SIX MONTHS RESULTS - unaudited	2008	2007	Change
Revenue	£5,457m	£4,725m	+15%
Profit from operations	£1,724m	£1,492m	+16%
Basic earnings per share	62.48p	52.94p	+18%
Adjusted diluted earnings per share	62.02p	53.51p	+16%
Interim dividend per share	22.1p	18.6p	+19%

	The reported Group revenue increased by 15 per cent to £5,457 million as a result of favourable exchange, improved pricing and a better product mix. Revenue would have increased by 6 per cent at constant rates of exchange.
	The reported profit from operations was 16 per cent higher at £1,724 million with a similar increase if exceptional items are excluded. All regions except Latin America contributed to this strong result. Profit from operations, excluding exceptional items, would have been 7 per cent higher at constant rates of exchange.
	Group volumes from subsidiaries were 334 billion, an increase of 1 per cent, mainly as a result of the good performances by the four Global Drive Brands, which achieved overall volume growth of 20 per cent with around a third of the rise coming from brand migrations.
	Adjusted diluted earnings per share rose by 16 per cent, principally as a result of the strong growth in profit from operations and favourable exchange movements.
	The Board has declared an interim dividend of 22.1p, a 19 per cent increase on last year, to be paid on 17 September 2008.
	The acquisitions of Tekel and Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni were completed on 24 June 2008 and 2 July 2008 respectively and neither had any material impact on the profit from operations for the six months to 30 June 2008.
	The Chairman, Jan du Plessis, commented "These very good interim results demonstrate the strength of British American Tobacco's business, as a result of the excellent growth from our Global Drive Brands, our leading market positions and our broad geographic spread.  While not immune from the consequences of an economic slowdown, we can certainly look to the future with more confidence than most."

ENQUIRIES:
INVESTOR RELATIONS:		PRESS OFFICE:
Ralph Edmondson/ Sharon Woodcock	020 7845 1180 020 7845 1519	David Betteridge/Kate Matrunola/ Catherine Armstrong	020 7845 2888

BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO p.l.c.

INTERIM REPORT TO 30 JUNE 2008 INDEX

	PAGE
Chairman's comments	2
Business review	4
Risks and uncertainties	9
Statement of Directors' responsibilities	9
Independent review report to British American Tobacco p.l.c.	10
Group income statement	11
Group statement of changes in total equity	12
Group balance sheet	13
Group cash flow statement	15
Accounting policies and basis of preparation	16
Segmental analyses of revenue and profit	17
Non-GAAP measures	19
Foreign currencies	19
Exceptional items	20
Tekel	21
Net finance costs	22
Associates	23
Taxation	23
Earnings per share	23
Cash flow	24
Net debt/financing	27
Dividends	27
Total Equity	27
Share buy-back programme	28
Related party disclosures	28
Contingent liabilities	28
Post balance sheet event	28
Financial calendar 2008	29
Disclaimers	29

CHAIRMAN'S COMMENTS

British American Tobacco has continued to perform very well in the first half of the year, with adjusted diluted earnings per share increasing by 16 per cent to 62.02p. The Board has declared an interim dividend of 22.1p, up 19 per cent.

Revenue was 6 per cent ahead at constant rates of exchange and 15 per cent at current rates. Profit from operations, excluding exceptional items, grew by 7 per cent at constant rates and 16 per cent at current rates to £1,757 million. The key drivers of this improvement were the £134 million benefit from foreign exchange, improved pricing and impressive growth in the sales of our premium brands, which grew by 7 per cent.

The Group's volume from subsidiaries was up 1 per cent to 334 billion, with most of the growth coming from our Global Drive Brands which increased by 20 per cent overall. Around a third of the growth came from our successful brand migrations, such as the migration of Benson & Hedges to Kent in South Africa.

Our associate companies' volumes were 111 billion and our share of their post-tax results, excluding exceptional items, increased by 6 per cent to £235 million. This improvement was 4 per cent at constant rates of exchange. There was a solid performance from Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni (ST) and strong growth from ITC but the contribution from Reynolds American was slightly lower as a result of reduced volumes.

Adjusted diluted earnings per share grew by 16 per cent to 62.02p. Higher net finance costs and an increase in minorities were more than offset by the improvement in profit from operations, the boost from foreign exchange, a slightly lower tax rate and the benefit from the share buyback programme. Some 7 million shares were bought back during the period at an average cost of £19.01 per share and at a total cost of £141 million.

The Board has declared an interim dividend of 22.1p, an increase of 19 per cent, which will be paid on 17 September to shareholders on the register on 8 August. In line with our established practice, the interim dividend represents one-third of the total dividend paid in respect of last year. Shareholders might like to remember that we anticipate completing our move to paying out 65 per cent of sustainable earnings in respect of our 2008 financial year.

We have now successfully completed both the acquisitions we announced in February. The purchase of the cigarette assets of Tekel, the Turkish state-owned tobacco business, took place on 24 June for a consideration of £866 million. The assets are being merged into British American Tobacco, Turkey, our existing business, which has performed well this year, with good growth in market share as a result of the success of our Global Drive Brands.

The acquisition of the cigarette business of ST and certain of its snus and roll-your-own tobacco interests, in exchange for our 32.35 per cent holding in ST and the payment of £1,239 million in cash, was completed on 2 July. The transaction was approved by the European Commission on condition that we agreed to divest a small number of local brands, primarily in Norway. The sale of these brands should not materially affect the benefits we expect to derive from the enlarged business.

Page 2

  Chairman's comments cont…

We have recently published our first Sustainability Report, building on our work in social reporting over the past few years. The key differences between a Sustainability Report and a Social Report are that the former is more focused on our material issues, rather than attempting to cover everything of potential concern to stakeholders. It is also more forward looking, while continuing to report on the past year's performance. In addition, we discuss what sustainability means to British American Tobacco and there are more meaningful targets and performance measures to help stakeholders judge how we are doing. I encourage any shareholders who have not already done so to read it on www.bat.com

These very good interim results demonstrate the strength of British American Tobacco's business, as a result of the excellent growth from our Global Drive Brands, our leading market positions and our broad geographic spread. While not immune from the consequences of an economic slowdown, we can certainly look to the future with more confidence than most.  

Jan du Plessis

30 July 2008

Page 3

BUSINESS REVIEW

The reported Group revenue was 15 per cent higher at £5,457 million as a result of favourable exchange rate movements, improved pricing and a better product mix.  At constant rates of exchange, revenue would have increased by 6 per cent.

The reported Group profit from operations was 16 per cent higher at £1,724 million, with a similar increase if exceptional items are excluded, as explained on page 20 and despite increased marketing investment.  All regions except Latin America contributed to this strong result.  Profit from operations, excluding exceptional items, would have been 7 per cent higher at constant rates of exchange.

Group volumes from subsidiaries were 334 billion, up 1 per cent. Good volume growth in Russia, Romania, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria was partly offset by declines in the Czech Republic, Italy, Germany, South Africa, Vietnam, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil.

The four Global Drive Brands continued their strong performance and achieved overall volume growth of 20 per cent, improving the Group ratio of Global Drive Brands as a percentage of total volumes to almost 26 per cent and leading to improved market shares in many markets.  Around a third of the growth was contributed by brand migrations. 

Kent grew by 26 per cent with excellent volume growth in Russia, Romania, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Chile and from the roll-out in new markets such as Egypt, Kyrgyzstan, Serbia and Latvia.  Kent also benefited from a brand migration in South Africa.  Volumes were lower in Japan, although market share increased.  Dunhill rose by 7 per cent, with growth in South Korea, Taiwan, Australia, South Africa and Saudi Arabia, although volumes were slightly lower in Malaysia despite an increase in market share.

Lucky Strike volumes were up 10 per cent with significant growth in Spain, Italy, France and Argentina, which were slightly offset by declines in Japan and Germany as a result of lower industry volumes.  The roll-out of Pall Mall to more markets such as Pakistan, Australia, Malawi and Belarus continued. The good growth in its existing markets of Turkey, Romania, Uzbekistan and Malaysia, partly offset by lower volumes in Poland and Italy, resulted in an increase in volumes of 29 per cent.

In Europe, profit at £530 million was up £126 million, mainly as a result of excellent performances in Russia and Romania, with growth in Germany, Spain, France, Switzerland, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and the Netherlands. These results benefited from the more favourable pricing environment and exchange rates. At constant rates of exchange, profit would have increased by £74 million or 18 per cent.  Regional volumes were up 2 per cent at 117 billion, with increases in Russia, Romania, Uzbekistan, Ukraine and Spain, partly offset by decreases in Italy, Germany, Czech Republic and Poland.

In Italy, Dunhill and Lucky Strike performed very well but overall volumes were adversely impacted by the decline of local brands and the disposal of some small brands in 2007.  Profit was higher as a result of lower overheads and a favourable exchange rate, partly offset by reduced volumes.

Volumes in Germany were down in line with industry volumes although Pall Mall was stable and increased market share.  However, profit rose as a result of exchange movements, as well as improved margins from a combination of price increases and cost reductions.  While industry volumes in France were lower after significant price rises in August 2007, market share rose as Lucky Strike and Pall Mall continued to gain share. Profit increased as a result of the higher prices and lower costs.  In Switzerland, volumes were up, resulting in higher market shares for Parisienne and Pall Mall. Profit grew strongly with the higher volumes and improved margins, following price increases and cost saving initiatives.

Page 4

  Business review cont...

In the Netherlands, profits were higher as a result of improved margins and increased volumes, driven by trade buying ahead of the July 2008 excise increase.  Industry volumes in Belgium were severely impacted by last year's excise-driven price rise, resulting in down-trading and lower margins which affected profit despite overhead savings.  In Spain, excellent profit and volume performances were achieved following the strong growth of Lucky Strike, coupled with a price increase at the beginning of the year.

In Russia, an outstanding performance by Kent, supported by Pall Mall, resulted in higher volumes and market share.  Profit increased significantly, benefiting from volume increases, higher prices and an improved product mix, as well as favourable exchange rates, partially offset by higher marketing investment.

In Romania, both volume and market share continued to grow, driven by Kent, Dunhill and Pall Mall which all recorded impressive growth.  Higher margins resulting from price rises and the improved product mix, together with the increased volumes, led to significantly higher profit.  Both profit and volumes in the Czech Republic were lower due to the effect of the trade buying at the end of 2007 ahead of an excise increase.

Total industry shipment volumes in Poland declined as a result of a significant excise driven price increase during 2007.  Although overall volumes declined, Viceroy grew strongly while higher prices improved profitability.  In Hungary, volumes were slightly down although Dunhill and Pall Mall performed well despite low price competition with the resulting down trading to low price products.  This, coupled with higher marketing investment behind the brands, led to lower profit.  In Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, volumes increased due to the impressive performance of Kent.  The improved volumes and product mix, higher prices and better cost control contributed to good profit performances in all three markets.

In Asia-Pacific, profit rose by £68 million to £403 million, mainly attributable to strong performances in Pakistan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Australia and Malaysia and also benefiting from favourable exchange rates.  At constant rates of exchange, profit would have increased by £43 million or 13 per cent.  Volumes at 77 billion were 3 per cent higher as good increases in Pakistan and Bangladesh were partially offset by lower volumes in Vietnam and Malaysia.

Profit in Australia was higher as a result of higher margins and exchange rate movements, partially offset by the impact of increased competitor discounting activities.  Volumes were in line with last year.  In New Zealand, volumes were similar to last year and profit improved, benefiting from price rises, cost efficiencies and exchange movements.

In Malaysia, market share grew with good performances from Dunhill and Pall Mall. Profit rose due to price increases, a better product mix and continued productivity savings, despite lower volumes due to the overall industry decline.

In Vietnam, strong profit growth was achieved through higher prices, an improved product mix and cost savings. Volumes were down due to lower industry volumes, although market share increased strongly with outstanding performances from Craven 'A' and Dunhill. 

Volumes in South Korea were in line with last year but market share was up as a result of the good performance from Dunhill. Profit was also similar to last year as the benefits of the product mix were offset by higher marketing investment.  In Taiwan, volumes were lower after the price repositioning of Pall Mall but Dunhill increased volume and market share, resulting in higher profit due to the improved product mix.

Page 5

  Business review cont...

Pakistan continued its strong growth as both volumes and market share were higher, with Gold Flake being the major contributor.  The strong volume growth, coupled with an improved product mix and higher prices, resulted in good profit increases.  In Bangladesh, strong growth in volumes, price rises and a better product mix resulted in an impressive increase in profit.  Profit in Sri Lanka was well ahead, benefiting from excise driven price rises, a better product mix and continued productivity improvements, with volumes only marginally lower due to a strong performance by Pall Mall.

Profit in Latin America decreased by £5 million to £381 million.  At constant rates of exchange, profit would have decreased by £48 million or 12 per cent.  Volumes were down 4 per cent at 71 billion with declines in Brazil, Mexico and Venezuela.

In Brazil, market share grew and reported profit increased, benefiting from a stronger local currency.  However, at constant rates of exchange, profit was down as margins in the comparative period were significantly higher due to price rises in anticipation of excise increases in July 2007.  A further price rise was not sufficient to offset the impact of slightly lower volumes, increased excise and higher marketing investment.

Volumes in Mexico were lower, resulting in a reduced market share.  Higher prices in February which did not fully recover the earlier excise increase, along with higher marketing investment, led to a reduced profit.  In Argentina, profit rose on higher margins and an improved product mix, due to the good performance of Lucky Strike, while volumes remained in line with last year.

In Chile, volumes were slightly up with the strong growth of Kent and Lucky Strike and profit improved due to price increases, partially offset by higher costs.  Market share in Venezuela grew but volumes declined following high excise driven price increases in the last quarter of 2007, resulting in a reduced profit, despite lower costs.  Volumes in the Central America and Caribbean area were down as a result of lower industry volumes and the resurgence in illicit trade.  However, profit increased as margins improved.

Profit in the Africa and Middle East region grew by £10 million to £259 million.  At constant rates of exchange, profit would have increased by £19 million or 8 per cent, mainly driven by South Africa and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).  Volumes were 5 per cent higher at 49 billion, following increases in Nigeria, Egypt and GCC, which were partly offset by declines in South Africa.

In South Africa, profit growth was achieved as a result of improved product mix and pricing but this was partially offset by the impact of the weaker exchange rate.  Volumes and market share were lower following the termination of the Chesterfield trademark license agreement at the end of 2007.  Dunhill and Peter Stuyvesant continued to deliver strong share performances, while Kent performed well after the migration from Benson & Hedges at the end of 2007.

Profit in Nigeria increased as a result of higher volumes, improved product mix and price rises while productivity and supply chain initiatives reduced costs. 

In the Middle East, profit and volumes were negatively impacted by distribution difficulties.  However, volumes were significantly higher in Saudi Arabia where Dunhill grew its market share impressively.  Strong sales across the Caucasus led to volume, market share and profit increases with Kent growing well.

In Turkey, where the recent acquisition of the cigarette assets of Tekel was completed on 24 June 2008 (see page 21) and had no material impact on the half year results, volumes grew strongly with good performances by Kent and Pall Mall increasing market share.  Results improved as a result of the volume growth and the stronger currency, partly offset by the higher overheads and marketing investment.

Page 6

  Business review cont...

Profit from the America-Pacific region increased by £43 million to £235 million.  This was principally due to the improved contribution from Canada and stronger currencies.  At constant rates of exchange, profit would have increased by £21 million or 11 per cent.  Volumes at 20 billion were slightly higher than last year.

Profit in Canada rose to £137 million.  This was the result of higher pricing, lower distribution costs and a stronger exchange rate, partly offset by lower volumes.  At constant rates of exchange, profit was £122 million, up 14 per cent.  Overall market share at 52 per cent was down 1.4 per cent as the decline in the Premium segment was not offset by the growth in the value-for-money and the budget segments.

In Japan, volumes grew despite the continued decline in total industry volumes.  Market share gains were driven by the strong performance of Kool while market shares of Kent and Lucky Strike were stable.  Profit was up as a result of higher pricing and volumes, improved mix and favourable exchange rates, partially offset by increased marketing expenditure.

Unallocated costs, which are net corporate costs not directly attributable to individual segments, were £51 million compared to £45 million in 2007, mainly as a result of the timing of expenses in 2007.

The above regional profits were achieved before accounting for restructuring costs, integration costs and gains on disposal of businesses and brands, as explained on page 20.

Results of Associates

Associates principally comprised Reynolds American, ITC and Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni (ST).

The Group's share of the post-tax results of associates increased by £71 million, or 32 per cent, to £293 million. Excluding the exceptional items in 2008, explained on page 23, the Group's share of the post-tax results of associates increased by 6 per cent to £235 million, with a growth of 4 per cent at constant rates of exchange.

The contribution from Reynolds American was up 30 per cent at £187 million. Excluding the benefit from the termination of a joint venture agreement this year, it was 1 per cent lower at £142 million, with a similar decrease at constant rates of exchange.  Although the second quarter's performance was better than the comparable quarter of last year, the profit for the six months was impacted by lower volumes and higher settlement expenses, partly offset by higher pricing and productivity at R. J. Reynolds and continued volume and pricing gains at Conwood.

The Group's associate in India, ITC, continued its strong profit growth and its contribution to the Group rose by £10 million to £64 million.  At constant rates of exchange, the contribution would have been 13 per cent higher than last year.

The contribution from the Group's associate in Denmark, ST, rose by £17 million, or 79 per cent, to £38 million.  Excluding the additional quarter's income reported in 2008, as explained on page 23, the contribution was 17 per cent higher at £25 million. At constant rates of exchange, this increase would have been 2 per cent.  As the acquisition was completed on 2 July 2008, it did not have any further impact on the results for the six months to 30 June 2008.

Page 7

  Business review cont...

Changes in the Group and net debt

On 22 February 2008, the Group announced that it had won the public tender to acquire the cigarette assets of Tekel, the Turkish state-owned tobacco company, with a bid of US$1,720 million.  Completion of this transaction was subject to regulatory approval which was subsequently received and on 24 June 2008 the Group completed the transaction (see page 21). 

On 27 February 2008, the Group agreed to acquire 100 per cent of Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni's (ST) cigarette and snus business in exchange for its 32.35 per cent holding in ST and payment of DKK11,598 million in cash, subject to finalisation of completion accounts.  Completion of this transaction was subject to regulatory approval which was subsequently received and on 2 July 2008 the Group completed the transaction (see page 28). 

Neither of the above transactions had any material impact on the profit from operations for the six months to 30 June 2008.

The transactions were financed from new facilities and bond issues, as described on page 26. 

Cigarette volumes

The segmental analysis of the volumes of subsidiaries is as follows:

3 months to					6 months to				Year to
30.06.08		30.06.07			30.06.08		30.06.07		31.12.07
bns		bns			bns		bns		bns
63.5		63.1		Europe	116.5		114.6		245.0
39.8		39.1		Asia-Pacific	76.5		74.4		145.2
35.3		36.3		Latin-America	71.4		74.0		150.5
25.8		24.0		Africa and Middle East	49.1		46.6		101.0
10.9		10.9		America-Pacific	20.2		20.1		42.3
175.3		173.4			333.7		329.7		684.0

In addition, associates' volumes for the six months were 110.9 billion (2007: 118.3 billion) and, with the inclusion of these, the Group volumes would be 444.6 billion (2007: 448.0 billion).

Page 8

  RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

The principal risks and uncertainties affecting the business activities of the Group were identified under the heading 'Key group risk factors', set out on pages 28 to 31 of the Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2007, a copy of which is available on the Group's website www.bat.com.  The key Group risks were summarised under the headings of:

• Illicit trade and intellectual property,

• Excise and sales tax,

• Regulation,

• Marketplace,

• Financial,

• Litigation, and

• Information technology.

In the view of the Board the key risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the financial year continue to be those set out in the above section of the Annual Report and Accounts, coupled with the challenges of incorporating the two recent acquisitions into the Group. These should be read in the context of the cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements on page 29.

STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES

The Directors confirm that this condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in accordance with IAS34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as adopted by the European Union, and that the interim management report herein includes a fair review of the information required by the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority, paragraphs DTR 4.2.7 and DTR 4.2.8.

The current Directors of British American Tobacco p.l.c. are listed on page 46 in the British American Tobacco Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2007, with the exception of Ben Stevens who succeeded Paul Rayner as Finance Director on 30 April 2008 and Kenneth Clarke who retired on 30 April 2008.

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors:

Jan du Plessis          Ben Stevens

Chairman                 Finance Director

30 July 2008

Page 9

INDEPENDENT REVIEW REPORT TO BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO p.l.c.

Introduction

We have been engaged by the Company to review the condensed set of financial statements in the Interim Report for the six months ended 30 June 2008, which comprises the Group income statement, the Group statement of changes in total equity, the Group balance sheet, the Group cash flow statement, the accounting policies and basis of preparation and the related notes.  We have read the other information contained in the Interim Report and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the condensed set of financial statements.

Directors' responsibilities

The Interim Report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the Directors.  The Directors are responsible for preparing the Interim Report in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom's Financial Services Authority.

As disclosed on page 16, the annual financial statements of the Group are prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union.  The condensed set of financial statements in the Interim Report has been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, "Interim Financial Reporting", as adopted by the European Union.

Our responsibility

Our responsibility is to express to the Company a conclusion on the condensed set of financial statements in the Interim Report based on our review.  This report, including the conclusion, has been prepared for and only for the Company for the purpose of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority and for no other purpose.  We do not, in producing this report, accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing.

Scope of review

We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410, 'Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity' issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom.  A review of interim financial information consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures.  A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) and consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit.  Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

Conclusion

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements in the Interim Report for the six months ended 30 June 2008 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34 as adopted by the European Union and the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom's Financial Services Authority.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chartered Accountants

London

30 July 2008

Page 10

GROUP INCOME STATEMENT - unaudited

3 months to					6 months to						Year to
30.6.08		30.6.07		30.6.08			30.6.07			31.12.07
£m		£m		£m			£m			£m
7,767		6,515	Gross turnover (including duty, excise and other taxes of £9,082 million (30.6.07: £7,609 million - 31.12.07: £16,216 million)	14,539			12,334			26,234
2,916		2,493	Revenue	5,457			4,725			10,018
(881)		(771)	Raw materials and consumables used	(1,537)			(1,386)			(2,802)
55		53	Changes in inventories of finished  goods and work in progress	52			78			30
(421)		(367)	Employee benefit costs	(806)			(711)			(1,586)
(91)		(82)	Depreciation and amortisation costs	(174)			(156)			(336)
31		40	Other operating income	54			70			205
(692)		(558)	Other operating expenses	(1,322)			(1,128)			(2,624)
917		808	Profit from operations	1,724			1,492			2,905
			after (charging)/crediting:
(23)		(32)	- restructuring and integration costs	(33)			(40)			(173)
		11	- gains on disposal of businesses    and brands				11			75
31		25	Finance income	121			55			136
(115)		(93)	Finance costs	(300)			(181)			(405)
(84)		(68)	Net finance costs	(179)			(126)			(269)
134		111	Share of post-tax results of  associates and joint ventures	293			222			442
			after (charging)/crediting:
			- brand impairments							(7)
13			- additional ST income	13
			- termination of joint venture	45
967		851	Profit before taxation	1,838			1,588			3,078
(270)		(221)	Taxation on ordinary activities	(494)			(420)			(791)
697		630	Profit for the period	1,344			1,168			2,287
			Attributable to:
650		584	Shareholders' equity	1,249			1,079			2,130
47		46	Minority interests	95			89			157
			Earnings per share
32.56p		28.70p	Basic	62.48p			52.94p			105.19p
32.35p		28.52p	Diluted	62.08p			52.58p			104.46p

See notes on pages 16 to 29.

Page 11

GROUP STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN TOTAL EQUITY - unaudited

	6 months to				Year to
	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Differences on exchange	(199)		88		312
Cash flow hedges
- net fair value gains	19		5		15
- reclassified and reported in profit for the period	(22)		(6)		(42)
Available-for-sale investments
- net fair value gains/(losses)	1		(1)		1
- reclassified and reported in profit for the period	(1)		(2)		1
Net investment hedges
- net fair value (losses)/gains	(39)		15		(35)
Tax on items recognised directly in equity	(23)		(13)		(19)
Net (losses)/gains recognised directly in equity	(264)		86		233
Profit for the period page 11	1,344		1,168		2,287
Total recognised income for the period	1,080		1,254		2,520
- shareholders' equity	969		1,159		2,348
- minority interests	111		95		172
Employee share options
- value of employee services	26		17		37
- proceeds from shares issued	7		19		27
Dividends and other appropriations  - ordinary shares	(954)		(821)		(1,198)
- to minority interests	(80)		(84)		(173)
Purchase of own shares
- held in employee share ownership trusts	(116)		(29)		(41)
- share buy-back programme	(191)		(358)		(750)
Acquisition of minority interests	(1)		(2)		(9)
Other movements	2		(8)		(3)
	(227)		(12)		410
Balance at 1 January	7,098		6,688		6,688
Balance at period end	6,871		6,676		7,098

  See notes on pages 16 to 29.

Page 12

GROUP BALANCE SHEET - unaudited

	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Assets
Non-current assets
Intangible assets	8,872		7,561		8,105
Property, plant and equipment	2,496		2,192		2,378
Investments in associates and joint ventures	2,147		2,212		2,269
Retirement benefit assets	60		37		50
Deferred tax assets	274		265		262
Trade and other receivables	159		143		123
Available-for-sale investments	24		19		22
Derivative financial instruments	96		79		153
Total non-current assets	14,128		12,508		13,362
Current assets
Inventories	2,637		2,208		1,985
Income tax receivable	94		50		85
Trade and other receivables	1,749		1,503		1,845
Available-for-sale investments	76		95		75
Derivative financial instruments	204		93		82
Cash and cash equivalents	2,326		1,141		1,258
	7,086		5,090		5,330
Assets classified as held for sale	285		53		36
Total current assets	7,371		5,143		5,366
Total assets	21,499		17,651		18,728

See notes on pages 16 to 29.

Page 13

GROUP BALANCE SHEET - unaudited

	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Equity
Capital and reserves
Share capital	506		509		506
Share premium, capital redemption and merger reserves	3,905		3,898		3,902
Other reserves	357		499		637
Retained earnings	1,855		1,534		1,835
Shareholders' funds	6,623		6,440		6,880
after deducting
- cost of treasury shares	(554)		(174)		(296)
Minority interests	248		236		218
Total equity	6,871		6,676		7,098
Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings	7,895		5,440		6,062
Retirement benefit liabilities	306		395		357
Deferred tax liabilities	336		304		294
Other provisions for liabilities and charges	153		145		165
Trade and other payables	139		152		149
Derivative financial instruments	114		82		49
Total non-current liabilities	8,943		6,518		7,076
Current liabilities
Borrowings	1,760		1,194		861
Income tax payable	274		281		227
Other provisions for liabilities and charges	300		230		263
Trade and other payables	3,167		2,665		2,976
Derivative financial instruments	181		82		225
	5,682		4,452		4,552
Liabilities directly associated with assets classified as  held for sale	3		5		2
Total current liabilities	5,685		4,457		4,554
Total equity and liabilities	21,499		17,651		18,728

See notes on pages 16 to 29.

Page 14

GROUP CASH FLOW STATEMENT - unaudited

	6 months to				Year to
	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations page 25	1,569		1,434		3,181
Dividends and other distributions received from associates	172		94		285
Tax paid	(455)		(410)		(866)
Net cash from operating activities	1,286		1,118		2,600
Cash flows from investing activities
Interest received	63		49		114
Dividends received from investments	1		1		2
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	(117)		(157)		(416)
Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment	17		27		46
Purchases of intangibles	(15)		(18)		(66)
Proceeds on disposal of intangibles	17		16		16
Purchases and disposals of investments	15		37		71
Purchases of subsidiaries and minority interests	(2)		(6)		(15)
Proceeds on disposals of subsidiaries					126
Purchase of Tekel cigarette assets	(867)
Net cash from investing activities	(888)		(51)		(122)
Cash flows from financing activities
Interest paid	(179)		(173)		(384)
Interest element of finance lease rental payments	(1)		(1)		(3)
Capital element of finance lease rental payments	(13)		(10)		(21)
Proceeds from issue of shares to Group shareholders	3		4		5
Proceeds from exercise of options over own shares held in employee ownership trusts	4		15		22
Proceeds from increases in and new borrowings	2,727		445		438
Movements relating to derivative financial instruments	(301)		(13)		(89)
Purchases of own shares	(137)		(358)		(750)
Purchase of own shares held in employee share ownership trusts	(116)		(29)		(41)
Reductions in and repayments of borrowings	(372)		(300)		(427)
Dividends paid to shareholders	(954)		(821)		(1,198)
Dividends paid to minority interests	(79)		(83)		(173)
Net cash from financing activities	582		(1,324)		(2,621)
Net cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities	980		(257)		(143)
Differences on exchange	91		10		47
Increase/(decrease) in net cash and cash equivalents in the period	1,071		(247)		(96)
Net cash and cash equivalents at 1 January	1,180		1,276		1,276
Net cash and cash equivalents at period end	2,251		1,029		1,180

See notes on pages 16 to 29.

Page 15

ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND BASIS OF PREPARATION

The financial information comprises the unaudited interim results for the six months to 30 June 2008 and 30 June 2007, together with the audited results for the year ended 31 December 2007.  This condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in accordance with IAS34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as adopted by the European Union and the Disclosure and Transparency Rules issued by the Financial Services Authority.  They are unaudited but have been reviewed by the auditors and their review report is set out on page 10.

The condensed set of financial statements does not constitute statutory accounts within the meaning of Section 240 of the UK Companies Act 1985 and should be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007, which were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union (EU) and implemented in the UK. The annual consolidated financial statements for 2007 represent the statutory accounts for that year and have been filed with the Registrar of Companies. The auditors' report on those statements was unqualified and did not contain any statement concerning accounting records or failure to obtain necessary information and explanations.

This condensed set of financial statements has been prepared under the historical cost convention, except in respect of certain financial instruments, and on a basis consistent with the IFRS accounting policies as set out in the Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2007, as updated for the business combination described on page 21.  The update extends the Group's accounting policy on 'intangible assets other than goodwill' to cover trademarks acquired by the Group's subsidiary undertakings.  As with other intangible assets shown on the Group balance sheet, acquired trademarks are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment.  Trademarks with indefinite lives are not amortised but are reviewed annually for impairment.  Other trademarks are amortised on a straight-line basis over their useful lives, which do not exceed twenty years.  Consistent with the existing policy for associated companies, impairments are recognised in the income statement but increases in values are not recognised.

As indicated in the 2007 Annual Report and Accounts, IFRIC14 (IAS19 - The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction) will be effective from 1 January 2008, once it has been endorsed by the EU. The interpretation clarifies the conditions under which a surplus in a post-retirement benefit scheme can be recognised in the financial statements, as well as setting out the accounting implications where minimum funding requirements exist. Currently, it is not expected that this change would materially alter the Group's reported equity and profit at 1 January 2008 or 31 December 2008.

The preparation of the condensed set of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the condensed set of financial statements. Such estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable in the circumstances and constitute management's best judgement at the date of the financial statements. In the future, actual experience may deviate from these estimates and assumptions, which could affect the condensed set of financial statements as the original estimates and assumptions are modified, as appropriate, in the period in which the circumstances change.

Page 16

SEGMENTAL ANALYSES OF REVENUE AND PROFIT - unaudited

The analyses for the six months are as follows:

Revenue	30.6.08						30.6.07
			Inter						Inter
	External		segment		Revenue		External		segment		Revenue
	£m		£m		£m		£m		£m		£m
Europe	2,057		115		2,172		1,683		125		1,808
Asia-Pacific	1,025		10		1,035		932		17		949
Latin America	1,051		292		1,343		939		253		1,192
Africa and Middle East	647				647		546		9		555
America-Pacific	260				260		221				221
	5,040		417		5,457		4,321		404		4,725

The analyses for the year ended 31 December 2007 are as follows:

			Inter
	External		segment		Revenue
	£m		£m		£m
Europe	3,621		225		3,846
Asia-Pacific	1,874		22		1,896
Latin America	1,979		585		2,564
Africa and Middle East	1,224		15		1,239
America-Pacific	473				473
	9,171		847		10,018

The segmental analysis of revenue above is based on location of manufacture and figures based on location of sales would be as follows:

	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Europe	2,071		1,708		3,655
Asia-Pacific	1,028		932		1,876
Latin America	1,056		944		1,983
Africa and Middle East	745		664		1,445
America-Pacific	557		477		1,059
	5,457		4,725		10,018

Page 17

SEGMENTAL ANALYSES OF REVENUE AND PROFIT cont... - unaudited

Profit from operations

	30.6.08				30.6.07				31.12.07
			Adjusted				Adjusted				Adjusted
	Segment		segment		Segment		segment		Segment		segment
	result		result*		result		result*		result		result*
	£m		£m		£m		£m		£m		£m
Europe	505		530		376		404		782		842
Asia-Pacific	400		403		339		335		667		672
Latin America	381		381		386		386		680		680
Africa and Middle East	252		259		247		249		447		470
America-Pacific	237		235		189		192		436		446
Segmental results	1,775		1,808		1,537		1,566		3,012		3,110
Unallocated costs	(51)		(51)		(45)		(45)		(107)		(107)
Profit from operations	1,724		1,757		1,492		1,521		2,905		3,003

*Excluding restructuring and integration costs and gains on disposal of businesses and brands as explained on page 20.

The segmental analysis of the Group's share of the post-tax results of associates and joint ventures is as follows:

	30.6.08				30.6.07				31.12.07
			Adjusted				Adjusted				Adjusted
	Segment		segment		Segment		segment		Segment		segment
	result		result*		result		result*		result		result*
	£m		£m		£m		£m		£m		£m
Europe	38		25		21		21		48		48
Asia-Pacific	66		66		55		55		110		110
Latin America	1		1		1		1		1		1
Africa and Middle East	1		1		1		1		1		1
America-Pacific	187		142		144		144		282		289
	293		235		222		222		442		449

*Excluding gain on termination of joint venture, additional ST income and charges for brand impairments as explained on page 23.

Page 18

  NON-GAAP MEASURES

In the reporting of financial information, the Group uses certain measures that are not required under IFRS, the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) under which the Group reports.  This is done because the Group believes that these additional measures, which are used internally by the Group, are useful to users of the financial statements in helping them understand the underlying business performance.

The principal non-GAAP measure which the Group uses is adjusted diluted earnings per share, which is reconciled to diluted earnings per share. The exceptional items that mainly drive the adjustments made, are separately disclosed as memorandum information on the face of the Income Statement and the segmental analysis.

The Group also prepares an alternative cash flow, which also includes a measure of 'free cash flow', to illustrate the cash flows before transactions relating to borrowings, and also provides gross turnover as an additional disclosure to indicate the impact of duty, excise and other taxes.

FOREIGN CURRENCIES

The results of overseas subsidiaries and associates have been translated to sterling as follows:

The income statement has been translated at the average rates for the respective periods. The total equity has been translated at the relevant period end rates. For high inflation countries, the local currency results are adjusted for the impact of inflation prior to translation to sterling at closing exchange rates.

The principal exchange rates used were as follows:

	Average						Closing
	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07		30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
US dollar	1.975		1.971		2.001		1.990		2.006		1.991
Canadian dollar	1.989		2.235		2.147		2.019		2.134		1.965
Euro	1.291		1.482		1.462		1.263		1.486		1.362
South African rand	15.127		14.120		14.110		15.579		14.149		13.605
Brazilian real	3.351		4.028		3.894		3.165		3.864		3.543
Australian dollar	2.138		2.437		2.390		2.074		2.365		2.267
Russian rouble	47.251		51.380		51.161		46.658		51.704		48.847

Page 19

  EXCEPTIONAL ITEMS

(a)  Restructuring and integration costs

During 2003, the Group commenced a detailed review of its manufacturing operations and organisational structure, including the initiative to reduce overheads and indirect costs. The restructuring continued, with major announcements which covered the cessation of production in the UK, Ireland, Canada and Zevenaar in the Netherlands, with production to be transferred elsewhere.

The results for the twelve months to 31 December 2007 included a charge for restructuring of £173 million, principally in respect of costs associated with restructuring the operations in Italy and with the reorganisation of the business across the Europe and Africa and Middle East regions, as well as further costs related to restructurings announced in prior years. On 18 May 2007, the Group's Italian subsidiary announced the results of a review of its manufacturing infrastructure, including an intention to consolidate its operations at the plant in Lecce, close its operations at Rovereto and sell its facilities at Chiaravalle together with three national brands. The disposal of Chiaravalle was completed on 12 September 2007.

The six months to 30 June 2008 includes a charge for restructuring and integration of £33 million (2007: £40 million), principally in respect of further costs related to restructurings announced in prior years.

(b)  Gains on disposal of businesses and brands

On 20 February 2007, the Group announced that it had agreed to sell its pipe tobacco trademarks to the Danish company, Orlik Tobacco Company A/S, for €24 million. The sale was completed during the second quarter in 2007 and resulted in a gain of £11 million included in other operating income in the profit from operations. However, the Group retained the Dunhill and Captain Black pipe tobacco brands.

On 23 May 2007, the Group announced that it had agreed to sell its Belgian cigar factory and associated brands to the cigars division of Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni. The sale included a factory in Leuven as well as trademarks including Corps Diplomatique, Schimmelpennick, Don Pablo and Mercator. The transaction was completed on 3 September 2007 and a gain on disposal of £45 million was included in other operating income in the profit from operations for the twelve months to 31 December 2007.

On 1 October 2007, the Group agreed the termination of its license agreement with Philip Morris for the rights to the Chesterfield trademark in a number of countries in Southern Africa. This transaction resulted in a gain of £19 million included in other operating income in the profit from operations for the twelve months to 31 December 2007.

Page 20

  TEKEL

On 22 February 2008, the Group announced that it had won the public tender to acquire the cigarette assets of Tekel, the Turkish state-owned tobacco company, with a bid of US$1,720 million.  The acquisition only relates to the cigarette assets of Tekel, which principally comprise brands, factories and tobacco leaf stocks.  The acquisition did not include employees and the Group had directly employed the required workforce by the effective date of the transaction.  Completion of this transaction was subject to regulatory approval which was subsequently received and on 24 June 2008 the Group completed the transaction.  Work is continuing in respect of the fair value exercise, and therefore the provisional values shown in the table below will be updated in due course as permitted under IFRS 3.

Provisional values	Book  value			Fair value  adjustments			Fair value
	£m			£m			£m
Intangible assets				124			124
Property, plant and equipment	77			15			92
Deferred tax asset				1			1
Inventories	154			(15)			139
Trade and other receivables				8			8
Other provisions for liabilities and charges				(2)			(2)
Assets classified as held for sale		6		29			35
Net assets acquired		237			160			397
Goodwill								476
Total consideration								873
Consideration satisfied by:
- Cash								866
- Acquisition costs								7
Total consideration								873

Included within the cigarette assets acquired from Tekel are certain items of property, plant and equipment that are being actively marketed for sale. These assets are expected to be sold within a period of one year from the balance sheet date and have been included as 'Assets classified as held for sale'.

The book values of the acquired assets have been revalued to fair value as at the acquisition date.  The main adjustments relate to the revaluations of land and buildings, recognition of cigarette trademarks and the recognition of a pre-paid operating lease rental agreement.  The book values are based on the latest management information available.

The provisional goodwill of £476 million arising on the acquisition of the cigarette assets of Tekel represents a strategic premium to acquire Tekel's significant market position in the Turkish cigarette market and anticipated synergies that will arise post acquisition. 

Page 21

  Tekel cont…

Although the acquisition was completed on 24 June 2008, the results generated from the acquired Tekel cigarette assets for the period to 30 June 2008 were not material for the Group.

If the acquisition had occurred on 1 January 2008, before accounting for anticipated synergy, restructuring and pricing benefits, it is currently estimated that Group revenue would have been £5,565 million and Group profit from operations would have been £1,728 million for the 6 months to 30 June 2008.  These amounts have been estimated based on the Tekel results for the 6 months prior to acquisition, adjusted to reflect changes arising as a result of the acquisition fair value adjustments.  The amounts reported for profit from operations are after charging £4 million for amortisation of acquired intangibles for the six months to 30 June 2008.

NET FINANCE COSTS

Net finance costs comprise:

			6 months to
			30.6.08				30.6.07
			£m				£m
Interest payable			(224)				(185)
Interest and dividend income			66				53
Fair value changes - derivatives	(157)				(36)
Exchange differences	136				42
			(21)				6
			(179)				(126)

Net finance costs at £179 million were £53 million higher than last year, principally reflecting the impact of derivatives and exchange differences, as well as a higher interest cost as a result of increased borrowings.

The net £21 million loss (2007: £6 million gain) of fair value changes and exchange differences reflects a loss of £9 million (2007: £6 million gain) from the net impact of exchange rate movements and a loss of £12 million (2007: £nil) principally due to interest related changes in the fair value of derivatives.

IFRS requires fair value changes for derivatives, which do not meet the tests for hedge accounting under IAS39, to be included in the income statement. In addition, certain exchange differences are required to be included in the income statement under IFRS and, as they are subject to exchange rate movements in a period, they can be a volatile element of net finance costs.  These amounts do not always reflect an economic gain or loss for the Group and, accordingly, the Group has decided that, in calculating the adjusted diluted earnings per share, it is appropriate to exclude certain amounts.

The adjusted diluted earnings per share for the period ended 30 June 2008 exclude, in line with previous practice, an £11 million loss (2007: £nil) relating to exchange losses in net finance costs where there is a compensating exchange gain reflected in differences in exchange taken directly to changes in total equity.

Page 22

  ASSOCIATES

The share of post-tax results of associates was £293 million (2007: £222 million) after taxation of £151 million (2007: £120 million). For the year to 31 December 2007, the share of post-tax results was £442 million after tax of £246 million. The share is after exceptional charges and credits.

On 21 February 2008, Reynolds American announced that it would receive a payment from Gallaher Limited resulting from the termination of a joint venture agreement. While the payment will be received over a number of years, in the six months to 30 June 2008 Reynolds American recognised a pre-tax gain of US$328 million. The Group's share of this gain included in the results for the six months, amounts to £45 million and is treated as an exceptional item (net of tax).

In the year ended 31 December 2007, Reynolds American modified the previously anticipated level of support between certain brands and the projected net sales of certain brands, resulting in a brand impairment charge of which the Group's share amounted to £7 million (net of tax).

The year end of the Group's associate company Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni (ST) is 30 June, and, for practical reasons, the Group had previously equity accounted for its interest based on the information available from ST which was 3 months in arrears to that of the Group.  As explained on page 28 under 'Post balance sheet event', the Group acquired 100 per cent of ST's cigarette and snus business on 2 July 2008.  Consequently, in order to account for the Group's share of the net assets of ST at the date of the acquisition, the estimated results of ST for the period up to 30 June 2008 have been included in these results, resulting in one additional quarter's income in 2008.  This contributed an additional £13 million to the share of post-tax results of associates and joint ventures, but this has been treated as an exceptional item and excluded from the calculation of the adjusted diluted earnings per share. 

The carrying value of the Group's interest in ST has been classified as 'Held for sale' at 30 June 2008.

TAXATION

The tax rate in the income statement of 26.9 per cent for the six months to 30 June 2008 (30 June 2007: 26.4 per cent) is affected by the inclusion of the share of associates' post-tax profit in the Group's pre-tax results. The underlying rate for subsidiaries reflected in the adjusted earnings per share below was 30.1 per cent and 30.8 per cent in 2007. The decrease arises primarily from a change in the mix of profits and a reduction in national tax rates in several countries. The charge relates to taxes payable overseas.

The tax charge for 2008 includes a one-off net deferred tax charge of £22 million as a result of the acquisition of the cigarette assets of Tekel. This has been excluded from the adjusted diluted earnings per share and consequently from the underlying tax rate above.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share are based on the profit for the period attributable to ordinary shareholders and the average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period (excluding treasury shares).

For the calculation of the diluted earnings per share the average number of shares reflects the potential dilutive effect of employee share schemes.

The earnings per share are based on:

	30.6.08				30.6.07				31.12.07
	Earnings		Shares		Earnings		Shares		Earnings		Shares
	£m		m		£m		m		£m		m
Basic	1,249		1,999		1,079		2,038		2,130		2,025
Diluted	1,249		2,012		1,079		2,052		2,130		2,039

Page 23

  Earnings per share cont…

The earnings have been affected by exceptional items, together with certain distortions to net finance costs under IFRS (see page 22) and to deferred tax (see page 23) in 2008, and to illustrate the impact of these distortions the adjusted diluted earnings per share are shown below:

	Diluted earnings per share
	6 months to				Year to
	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	pence		pence		Pence
Unadjusted earnings per share	62.08		52.58		104.46
Effect of restructuring and integration costs	1.19		1.32		6.48
Effect of disposals of businesses and brands			(0.39)		(2.75)
Net finance cost adjustment	0.55
Effect of associates' brand impairments and termination of joint ventures	(2.24)				0.34
Effect of additional ST income	(0.65)
Effect of deferred tax adjustment	1.09
Adjusted diluted earnings per share	62.02		53.51		108.53
Adjusted diluted earnings per share are based on:
- adjusted earnings (£m)	1,248		1,098		2,213
- shares (m)	2,012		2,052		2,039

Similar types of adjustments would apply to basic earnings per share. For the six months to 30 June 2008, basic earnings per share on an adjusted basis would be 62.43p (2007: 53.87p) compared to unadjusted amounts of 62.48p (2007: 52.94p).

CASH FLOW

a) Alternative cash flow

The IFRS cash flow includes all transactions affecting cash and cash equivalents, including financing.  The alternative cash flow below is presented to illustrate the cash flows before transactions relating to borrowings.

	6 months to				Year to
	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Net cash from operating activities before restructuring costs and taxation	1,815		1,604		3,656
Restructuring costs	(74)		(76)		(190)
Taxation	(455)		(410)		(866)
Net cash from operating activities (page 15)	1,286		1,118		2,600
Net interest	(125)		(135)		(280)
Net capital expenditure	(115)		(148)		(436)
Dividends to minority interests	(79)		(83)		(173)
Free cash flow	967		752		1,711
Dividends paid to shareholders	(954)		(821)		(1,198)
Share buy-back	(137)		(358)		(750)
Purchase of Tekel cigarette assets (page 21)	(867)
Other net flows	(136)		25		152
Net cash flows	(1,127)		(402)		(85)

Page 24

  Cash flow cont…

The Group's net cash flow from operating activities at £1,286 million was £168 million higher, with the growth in underlying operating performance only partly offset by higher tax payments and adverse working capital movements reflecting timing and one-off differences in 2007 and 2008.  In addition, dividends and other distributions received from associates were higher as a result of timing and the inclusion of an amount of £19 million in respect of the Group's participation in the share buy-back programme conducted by Reynolds American Inc.

With relatively small changes in net interest and dividends paid to minorities, as well as lower net capital expenditure, the free cash flow was £967 million, £215 million higher than 2007.

Below free cash flow, the principal charge is the outflow of £867 million for the Tekel asset acquisition. In addition, the cash flows for the first six months of the year include the payment of the prior year's final dividend (2008: £954 million - 2007: £821 million).  However, the share buy-back outflow is lower at £137 million (2007: £358 million). The change in other net flows from a £25 million inflow in 2007 to a £136 million outflow in 2008 includes the increased purchase of own shares to be held in employee share ownership trusts.

The above flows resulted in net cash outflows of £1,127 million (30 June 2007: £402 million outflow - 31 December 2007: £85 million outflow). After taking account of transactions related to borrowings, especially net new borrowings, the above flows resulted in a net increase of cash and cash equivalents of £980 million, (30 June 2007: £257 million decrease - 31 December 2007: £143 million decrease) as shown in the IFRS cash flow on page 15.

These cash flows, after a positive exchange impact of £91 million, resulted in cash and cash equivalents, net of overdrafts, increasing by £1,071 million in 2008 (30 June 2007: £247 million decrease - 31 December 2007: £96 million decrease).

Borrowings, excluding overdrafts but taking into account derivatives relating to borrowings, were £9,547 million compared to £6,836 million at 31 December 2007.  The increase principally reflected the impact of additional borrowings to finance acquisitions as well as exchange rate movements.

Current available-for-sale investments at 30 June 2008 were £76 million (30 June 2007: £95 million and 31 December 2007: £75 million).

As a result of the above, total borrowings including related derivatives, net of cash, cash equivalents and current available-for-sale investments, were £7,216 million (31 December 2007: £5,581 million).

b)  Cash generated from operations (page 15)

	6 months to				Year to
	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Profit before taxation	1,838		1,588		3,078
Adjustments for:
Share of post-tax results of associates and joint ventures	(293)		(222)		(442)
Net finance costs	179		126		269
Gains on disposal of businesses and brands			(11)		(75)
Depreciation and impairment of property, plant and equipment	153		141		293
Amortisation and write off of intangible assets	21		15		43
(Increase)/decrease in inventories	(415)		(146)		170
Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables	120		134		(83)
Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables	55		(94)		61
(Decrease) in net retirement benefit liabilities	(58)		(55)		(120)
(Decrease) in other provisions for liabilities and charges	(41)		(43)		(16)
Other	10		1		3
Cash generated from operations	1,569		1,434		3,181

Page 25

  Cash flow cont…

c) IFRS investing and financing activities

The investing and financing activities in the IFRS cash flows on page 15 include the following items:

The proceeds on disposal of intangibles of £16 million for the six months ended 30 June 2007 and the year ended 31 December 2007 arose from the pipe tobacco trademark sale explained on page 20. In the six months ended 30 June 2008, the £17 million proceeds on disposal of intangibles arose from the termination of a licence agreement in Southern Africa in 2007, as explained on page 20.

Purchases and disposals of investments (which comprise available-for-sale investments and loans and receivables) include an inflow in respect of current investments of £14 million for the six months to 30 June 2008 (30 June 2007: £33 million inflow - 31 December 2007: £65 million inflow) and £1 million sales proceeds of non-current investments for the six months to 30 June 2008 (30 June 2007: £4 million - 31 December 2007: £6 million).

Proceeds on disposals of subsidiaries for the year ended 31 December 2007 principally reflected the proceeds from sale of the Belgian Cigar factory and associated brands.

In the six months to 30 June 2008, the cash outflow of £867 million on the purchase of Tekel assets comprises the purchase price and part of the acquisition costs as shown on page 21.  The purchase of subsidiaries and minority interests in 2008 and 2007 arises from the acquisition of minority interests in the Group's subsidiaries in Africa and Middle East, Europe and Asia-Pacific.

In the six months to 30 June 2008, the €1.8 billion revolving credit facility arranged in December last year was cancelled and replaced with the issue of €1.25 billion and £500 million bonds maturing in 2015 and 2024 respectively.  In addition to this, the Group increased its €1 billion 5.375 per cent bond by an additional €250 million, bringing the total size of the bond to €1.25 billion.  In the six months to 30 June 2007, €800 million of notes with a maturity of 2009 were replaced by a €1 billion bond with a maturity of 2017.

On 13 February 2008, the Group entered into a revolving credit facility whereby lenders agreed to make available an amount of US$2 billion to finance certain acquisition activities. On 1 May 2008, this facility was syndicated in the market and was redenominated into two euro facilities, one of €420 million and one of €860 million. These facilities expire on 31 October 2009.  There was a net draw down on these revolving credit facilities of €1.13 billion during the six months to 30 June 2008 (2007 €nil).

During the six months to 30 June 2008, the Group also repaid the US$330 million fixed rate bond upon maturity in May 2008.

The movement relating to derivative financial instruments is in respect of derivatives taken out to hedge cash and cash equivalents and external borrowings, derivatives taken out to hedge inter company loans and derivatives treated as net investment hedges. Derivatives taken out as cash flow hedges in respect of financing activities are also included in the movement relating to derivative financial instruments, while other such derivatives in respect of operating and investing activities are reflected along with the underlying transactions.

Page 26

  Cash flow cont…

d) Net cash and cash equivalents in the Group cash flow statement comprise:

	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Cash and cash equivalents per balance sheet	2,326		1,141		1,258
Accrued interest	(4)		(1)
Overdrafts	(71)		(111)		(78)
Net cash and cash equivalents	2,251		1,029		1,180

NET DEBT/FINANCING

The Group remains confident in its ability to access successfully the debt capital markets and reviews its options on an ongoing basis.  The main financing agreements since the beginning of the financial year are described on page 26, with issue proceeds used to finance certain acquisition activities, as well as repay maturing debt.

DIVIDENDS

The Directors have declared an interim dividend for the six months to 30 June 2008, for payment on 17 September 2008, at the rate of 22.1p per share.  This interim dividend amounts to £440 million.  The comparative dividend for the six months to 30 June 2007 of 18.6p per share amounted to £377 million.  Valid transfers received by the Registrar of the Company up to 8 August 2008 will be in time to rank for payment of the interim dividend.

In accordance with IFRS, the interim dividend will be charged in the Group results for the third quarter.  The results for the six months to 30 June 2008 include the final dividend paid in respect of the year ended 31 December 2007 of 47.6p per share amounting to £954 million (30 June 2007: 40.2p amounting to £821 million).

TOTAL EQUITY

	30.6.08		30.6.07		31.12.07
	£m		£m		£m
Share capital	506		509		506
Share premium account	56		52		53
Capital redemption reserves	101		98		101
Merger reserves	3,748		3,748		3,748
Translation reserve	(218)		(94)		59
Hedging reserve	(14)		9		(11)
Available-for-sale reserve	16		11		16
Other reserves	573		573		573
Retained earnings	1,855		1,534		1,835
after deducting:
- cost of treasury shares	(554)		(174)		(296)
Total shareholders' funds	6,623		6,440		6,880
Minority interest	248		236		218
Total equity	6,871		6,676		7,098

Page 27

  SHARE BUY-BACK PROGRAMME

The Group initiated an on-market share buy-back programme at the end of February 2003. During the six months to 30 June 2008, 7 million shares were bought at a cost of £141 million (30 June 2007: 22 million shares at a cost of £358 million).

'Purchase of own shares' in the Group statement of changes in total equity, includes an amount of £50 million provided for the potential buy-back of shares during July 2008 under an irrevocable non-discretionary contract.

RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

The Group's related party transactions and relationships for 2007 were disclosed in the British American Tobacco Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2007.  In the six months to 30 June 2008, there were no material changes in related parties or related party transactions, other than in relation to the ST Group (see below) and Reynolds American Inc. (see page 25).

CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

As noted in the Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2007, there are contingent liabilities in respect of litigation, overseas taxes and guarantees in various countries.

Group companies, as well as other leading cigarette manufacturers, are defendants in a number of product liability cases.  In a number of these cases, the amounts of compensatory and punitive damages sought are significant.  At least in the aggregate and despite the quality of defences available to the Group, it is not impossible that the results of operations or cash flows of the Group in particular quarterly or annual periods could be materially affected by this.

Having regard to these matters, the Directors (i) do not consider it appropriate to make any provision in respect of any pending litigation and (ii) do not believe that the ultimate outcome of this litigation will significantly impair the financial condition of the Group.

POST BALANCE SHEET EVENT

Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni (ST)

On 27 February 2008, the Group agreed to acquire 100 per cent of ST's cigarette and snus business in exchange for its 32.35 per cent holding in ST and payment of DKK11,598 million (£1,239 million) in cash, subject to finalisation of completion accounts.  Completion of this transaction was subject to regulatory approval which was subsequently received on the condition that the Group agreed to divest a small number of local brands, primarily in Norway. The transaction was completed on 2 July 2008.

At this stage, for practical reasons including geographical spread and timing of completion, it is not possible to provide the full IFRS 3 'Business Combinations' disclosures.  Work on identifying the fair values of the acquired assets and liabilities is continuing and it is expected that relevant disclosures will be provided as part of the Q3 announcement.

Page 28

  Post balance sheet event cont…

The transaction will be accounted for as a disposal of our 32.35 per cent interest in the non-cigarette and snus businesses of ST and an acquisition of 67.65 per cent of the cigarette and snus business' net assets of ST.

Until the date of the transaction the results of ST were equity accounted for as an associated undertaking and following the transaction, the results of the acquired businesses will be consolidated.  At 30 June 2008, the carrying value of the existing business in ST has been shown as 'assets classified as held for sale'.

The estimated book value of the net assets of the cigarette and snus business is approximately £200 million, comprising assets of £630 million and liabilities of £430 million.

FINANCIAL CALENDAR 2008

6 August            Ex-dividend date for 2008 interim dividend

8 August            Record date 2008 interim dividend

17 September     Payment date 2008 interim dividend

30 October         Third quarter results announced

DISCLAIMERS

This Report does not constitute an invitation to underwrite, subscribe for, or otherwise acquire or dispose of any British American Tobacco p.l.c. shares or other securities.

This Report contains certain forward looking statements which are subject to risk factors associated with, among other things, the economic and business circumstances occurring from time to time in the countries and markets in which the Group operates. It is believed that the expectations reflected in this announcement are reasonable but they may be affected by a wide range of variables which could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated.

Neither the Company nor the Directors accept any liability to any person in relation to this Report except to the extent that such liability could arise under English law. Accordingly, any liability to a person who has demonstrated reliance on any untrue or misleading statement or omission shall be determined in accordance with section 90A of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.

Past performance is no guide to future performance and persons needing advice should consult an independent financial advisor.

Copies of this Report may be obtained during normal business hours from the Company's Registered Office at Globe House, 4 Temple Place, London WC2R 2PG and from our website www.bat.com

Page 29

 

END

 

 

IR IFFEIDTIIVIT