*The financial highlights are underlying results for the year ended 30 September 2008. Underlying operating profit excludes separately disclosed items, amortisation of IFRS 3 intangibles, goodwill impairment and taxation of results of the Group’s joint ventures and associates.  Underlying profit before tax also excludes an acquisition related put option interest charge.  Underlying earnings per share excludes the same items as excluded from underlying profit before tax, net of related taxation.

The comparative information is presented on an unaudited pro forma basis for 12 months to 30 September 2007. As set out in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the statutory comparative period included in the financial statements is nine months to 30 September 2007 and includes the results of First Choice from 3 September 2007 only.