Operating profit before amortisation of acquisition intangibles
16.5
13.1
9.1
Basic earnings per share (p)
28.7
22.8
17.1
Dividends per share (p) declared in respect of the year
7.9
6.9
6.0
Dividend
Policy
The company intends to pursue a progressive dividend policy. The dividend in respect of the year ended 31 March 2008 was 15% ahead of the previous year.