Annual Report and Accounts 2009

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the year ended 31 December 2009


The special reserve arose as a result of a number of transfers from the Group’s share premium reserve up until 1996. Goodwill arising on a number of historic acquisitions was then written off against this special reserve under the accounting convention at that time. The balance on the special reserve was transferred into retained profits in the year, see Note 11 to the Company Accounts for details.

The share option reserve represents the cumulative share option charge under IFRS 2 less the value of any share options that have been exercised.

The hedging and translation reserve represents movements in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as a result of movements in exchange rates which are taken directly to reserves as detailed in the Statement of Significant Accounting Policies.

The accompanying Statement of Significant Accounting Policies and Notes to the Accounts are an integral part of this Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity.