ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principal accounting policies

These consolidated and company financial statements are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) of the International Accounting Standards Board, the JSE Listings Requirements and the Companies Act of South Africa and are consistent with those of the previous year.

The financial statements are prepared on the historical cost basis except that, as set out in the accounting policies below, certain items, including derivatives, investment in service concessions and investment property are stated at fair value. The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis. Set out below are the principal accounting policies used consistently throughout the group. Investments in subsidiaries are carried at cost in the company financial statements.

The consolidated financial statements include those of the holding company, its subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates.

To assist with improved disclosures some comparatives have been restated. None of these items were material.

1.1

Basis of consolidation

a)	Business combinations

	The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for business combinations by the group. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a business is the fair values of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred and the equity interests issued by the group. The consideration transferred includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. On an acquisition-by-acquisition basis, the group recognises any non-controlling interest in the acquiree either at fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquiree’s net assets. Subsequently, the carrying amount of non-controlling interest is the amount of the interest at initial recognition plus the non-controlling interest’s share of the subsequent changes in equity. Total comprehensive income is attributed to non-controlling interest even if this results in the non-controlling interest having a deficit balance. The excess of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree and the acquisition date fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquiree over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If this is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired in the case of a bargain purchase, the difference is recognised directly in the statement of comprehensive income.

b)	Subsidiaries

	Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purpose entities) over which the group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of he voting rights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the group controls another entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the group until the date on which control ceases. Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the group.

c)	Transactions and non-controlling interests

	The group treats transactions with non-controlling interests as transactions with equity owners of the group. For purchases from non-controlling interests, the difference between any consideration paid and the elevant share acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary is recorded in equity. Gains or losses on disposals to non-controlling interests are also recorded in equity.

d)	Common control transactions – premium and discount arising on subsequent purchase from or sales to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries

	Following the presentation of non-controlling interests in equity any increases and decreases in ownership interests in subsidiaries without a change in control are recognised as equity transactions in the consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, any premium or discount on subsequent purchases of equity instruments from or sales of equity instruments to non-controlling interests are recognised directly in equity of the parent shareholder.

e)	Joint ventures

	Joint ventures are those entities in which the group has joint control. The proportion of assets, liabilities, income and expenses and cash flows attributable to the interests of the group in jointly controlled entities re incorporated in the consolidated financial statements under the appropriate headings. The results of joint ventures are included from the effective dates of acquisition and up to the effective dates of disposal. Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between the group and its joint ventures are eliminated on consolidation. Unrealised losses are eliminated and are also considered an impairment indicator of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of joint ventures have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with policies adopted by the group.

f)	Associates

	Associates are all entities over which the group has significant influence but not control, generally accompanying a shareholding of between 20% and 50% of the voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and are initially recognised at cost. The group’s investment in associates includes goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment loss.The group’s share of its associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the income statement, and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in reserves. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount ofthe investment. When the group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, including any other unsecured receivables, the group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate. The total carrying value of associates is evaluated when there is an indication/indicators for impairment. Unrealised gains on transactions between the group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the group’s interest in the associates. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of associates have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the group.

1.2

Segment information

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decisionmaker. The chief operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as exco which makes strategic decisions. The basis of segmental reporting is set out on page 192.

1.3

Foreign currency translation

Functional and presentation currency

Items included in the financial statements of each of the group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (the functional currency). The consolidated financial statements are presented in Rand, which is the group’s presentation currency.

Transactions and balances

Foreign currency transactions of a group entity are initially translated into its functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the subsequent translation at year end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement.

Where appropriate, in order to minimise its exposure to foreign exchange risks the group enters into forward exchange contracts.

Group companies

The results and financial position of all the group entities (none of which has the currency of a hyperinflationary economy) that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

	assets and liabilities for each statement of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that statement of financial position;
	income and expenses for each income statement are translated at average exchange rates (unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the rate on the dates of the transactions); and
	all resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate component of equity.

1.4

Revenue recognition

The group recognises revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the entity and when specific criteria have been met for each of the group’s activities as described below. The group bases its estimates on historical results, taking into consideration the type of customer, the type of transaction and the specifics of each arrangement. Revenue relating to long term contracts are accounted for using the percentage of completion method and are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and include variations and claims; the stage of completion is measured by reference to the relationship of contract costs incurred or significant activity achieved to date for work performed relative to the estimated total costs or total significant activity of the contract. If circumstances arise that may change the original estimates of revenues, costs or extent of progress toward completion, estimates are revised. These revisions may result in increases or decreases in estimated revenues or costs and are reflected in income in the period in which the circumstances that give rise to the revision become known by management. Property sales are recognised when risks and rewards of ownership are transferred.

Revenue from purchased, manufactured or mined products is recognised upon delivery of products and customer acceptance. Revenue from performance of services, including operations and maintenance services, is generally recognised in the period when the services are actually provided and is measured based on contractual rates. All revenues are stated net of value added taxes and trade discounts, if applicable.

Inter-company revenues are eliminated on consolidation.

Other income, which is not included in revenue, earned by the group is recognised on the following basis:

	interest income – as it accrues (taking into account the effective yield on the asset);
	dividend income – when the shareholder’s right to receive payment is established;
	investment property and investments in concessions – fair value increases or decreases during the year; and
	the by-product revenue received from the sale of gold as a result of the processing of sand is not regarded as significant and revenue is credited against cost of sales, when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the products are transferred to the buyer.

1.5

Operating profit

Transactions such as fair value adjustments on service concessions, fair value adjustments on investment property, fair value adjustment on property developments and impairment adjustments are considered to be part of operating profit but are separately disclosed as they are transactions in addition to the underlying operating activities of the business units.

1.6

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment consist of the following categories:

Properties

Properties consist of the following:
	occupied property;
	investment property; and
	property development costs (disclosed as inventory).
The accounting for each category of properties is as follows:
	company occupied property is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation, other than land, which is not depreciated. Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of these properties over their expected useful lives on a straight-line basis; generally, buildings are depreciated over 50 years; gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with the carrying amount and are included in net profit;
	investment property, which is disclosed separately and is property held to generate independent cash flows through rental or capital appreciation, is carried at fair value with changes in fair value included in the income statement; and
	property development costs held as inventory, which is property held for development and resale, is valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

Mining assets and undeveloped mining resources

Mine development costs, are initially recorded at cost, whereafter they are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation, calculated on a units of production basis based on estimated proven and probable reserves. Costs include pre-production expenditure incurred in the development of the mine and the present value of future decommissioning and rehabilitation costs. Interest on borrowings to finance specifically the establishment of mining assets is capitalised until it is substantially completed. Development costs incurred to evaluate and develop new resources, or to define existing resources, or to establish or expand productive capacity or to maintain production are capitalised. Mine development costs are capitalised to the extent they provide access to resources which have future economic benefit. Mine assets and mine plant facilities are amortised using the lesser of their useful life or units of production method based on proven reserves. Stripping costs incurred during the production phase to remove waste are deferred and charged to the income statement on the basis of the average life-of-mine stripping ratio. The average stripping ratio is calculated asthe number of tonnes of waste material removed per tonne of resource mined. The average life of-mine ratio is revised annually in the light of additional knowledge and change in estimates. The cost of “excess stripping” is capitalised as mine development costs when the actual stripping ratio exceeds the average life-of-mine stripping ratio. Where the average life-of-mine stripping ratio exceeds the actual stripping ratio, the cost is charged to the income statement.

Undeveloped mining resources are initially valued at the fair value of the resources obtained through acquisitions. The fair value of these properties is tested annually for impairment. When eventually mined, the undeveloped mining resources are amortised as above. Mineral rights are depreciated using the units of production method based on proved and probable mineral reserves. Dumps are depreciated over the period of treatment.

Capital work in progress

Property, plant and equipment under construction is stated at initial cost and is not depreciated. The cost of selfconstructed assets includes expenditure on materials, direct labour, an allocated proportion of project overheads and related borrowing costs. Assets are transferred from capital work in progress to an appropriate category of property, plant and equipment when commissioned and ready for its intended use.

Factory plant

Factory plant, including capitalised leased assets, is stated at initial cost less subsequent accumulated depreciation and impairment. Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of factory plant to its estimated residual value on a straight-line basis over its expected useful life. Where factory plant comprises major components with different useful lives, these components are accounted for and depreciated as separate items and residual values are re-assessed annually. The expected useful lives are generally between five and 15 years. The estimated useful lives and residual values are reviewed annually.

Mobile plant and vehicles

Mobile plant and vehicles, including capitalised leased assets, are stated at initial cost less subsequent accumulated depreciation and impairment. Where mobile plant and vehicles comprise major components with different useful lives, these components are accounted for and depreciated as separate items and residual values are re-assessed annually. Depreciation is calculated to write off the value of mobile plant and vehicles to their estimated residual values on a straight-line basis over their expected useful lives. The expected useful lives are generally three to ten years. The estimated useful lives and residual values are reviewed annually.

Computerware and development costs

Computer equipment, including capitalised leased assets, is stated at initial cost less subsequent accumulated depreciation and impairment. Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of these assets to their estimated residual values on a straight-line basis over their expected useful lives on a component basis. The expected useful lives are generally three years. The estimated useful lives and residual values are reviewed annually.

Development costs that enhance and extend the benefits of computer software programs are recognised as a capital improvement and added to the original cost of the software. These include purchased software and the direct costs associated with the customisation and installation thereof. Development costs recognised as assets are depreciated using the straight-line method over their useful lives, not exceeding a period of ten years.

Furniture, fittings and other items

Furniture, fittings and other items are stated at initial cost less subsequent accumulated depreciation and impairment. Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of these assets to their estimated residual values on a straight-line basis over their expected useful lives on a component basis. The expected useful lives are generally three to five years. The estimated useful lives and residual values are reviewed annually.

Replacement and modification expenditure (relate to all categories)

Expenditure incurred to replace or modify a significant component of property, plant and equipment is capitalised and any remaining book value of the component replaced is written off immediately in the income statement. Other repair and maintenance expenditure is charged directly to the income statement as incurred.

Gains and losses

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised within the income statement as appropriate.

1.7

Investment property

Investment property is property held to generate independent cash flows through rental or capital appreciation, and is carried at fair value with changes in fair value included in the income statement.

1.8

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the group’s share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the group’s cash generating units expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. Goodwill is allocated to the group’s cash generating units identified according to country of operation and business segment. Goodwill is tested annually for impairment and carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. The carrying amount of goodwill is included in computing the gains and losses on the disposal of an entity. Impairment tests are conducted annually on goodwill based on future discounted cash flows and other appropriate methods.

1.9

Impairment adjustments

1.9.1

Non-current non-financial assets

Non-current non-financial assets are tested for impairment when there is an indication for impairment. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash generating units). Non-financial assets that suffered an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each reporting date.

1.9.2

Financial assets: assets carried at amortised cost

The group assesses at the end of each reporting period whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. A financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired and impairment losses are incurred only if there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (a “loss event”) and that loss event (or events) has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated.

The criteria that the group uses to determine that there is objective evidence of an impairment loss include:

significant financial difficulty of the issuer or obligor;

a breach of contract, such as a default or delinquency in interest or principal payments;

the group, for economic or legal reasons relating to the borrower’s financial difficulty, granting to the borrower a concession that the lender would not otherwise consider;

it becomes probable that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganisation;

the disappearance of an active market for that financial asset because of financial difficulties; or

observable data indicating that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows from a portfolio of financial assets since the initial recognition of those assets, although the decrease cannot yet be identified with the individual financial assets in the portfolio, including:

(i)	adverse changes in the payment status of borrowers in the portfolio; and
(ii)	national or local economic conditions that correlate with defaults on the assets in the portfolio.

The group first assesses whether objective evidence of impairment exists. The amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future credit losses that have not been incurred) discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. The asset’s carrying amount of the asset is reduced and the amount of the loss is recognised in the consolidated income statement. If a loan or held-to-maturity investment has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment loss is the current effective interest rate determined under the contract. As a practical expedient, the group may measure impairment on the basis of an instrument’s fair value using an observable market price.

If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to anevent occurring after the impairment was recognised (such as an improvement in the debtor’s credit rating), the reversal of the previously recognised impairment loss is recognised in the consolidated income statement.

1.10

Financial assets

The group classifies its financial assets in the following categories; at fair value through profit and loss or loans and receivables. The classification depends on the purpose for which the financial assets were acquired. Management determines the classification of its financial assets at initial recognition.

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss are financial assets held for trading or those designated as fair value through profit and loss on initial recognition. These assets are reflected in current and non-current assets respectively. Derivatives are classified as held for trading unless they are designated as hedges. Financial assets carried at fair value through profit and loss are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently carried at fair value. Gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of the financial assets at fair value through profit and loss category are presented in the income statement in the period in which they arise. The method for estimation of fair value is described within the accounting policy for each financial asset and within the disclosure on judgments and estimates.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater than 12 months after the statement of financial position date. These are classified as non-current assets. Loans and receivables include trade and other receivables and cash and cash equivalents in the statement of financial position. Loans and receivables are initially recognised at fair value, plus transaction costs, and subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

1.11

Investments in service concessions

These investments consist of interests in service concessions over which the group has neither control nor significant influence. These investments are financial assets designated at fair value through profit and loss. They are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at fair value with changes in fair value, recognised in the income statement.

1.12

Investments in property developments

These investments consist of interest in property development entities over which the group has neither control nor significant influence. These investments are financial assets designated at fair value through profit and loss. They are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at fair value with changes in fair value, recognised in the income statement.

1.13

Financial instruments

Financial instruments carried on the statement of financial position include cash and cash equivalents (as defined), short term borrowings, investments in service concessions, investmentin property development, pension fund surplus, trade and other receivables, trade and other payables, interest-bearing borrowings and derivative financial instruments. The particular recognition methods adopted are disclosed in the individual policy statements or notes associated with each item.

1.14

Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at their fair value. The method of recognising the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument, and if so, the nature of the item being hedged. The group designates certain derivatives as either:


a)	hedges of the fair value of recognised fixed rate liabilities (fair value hedge);
b)	hedges of a particular risk associated with a recognised fixed rate liability (fair value hedge) or a highly probable forecast transaction (cash flow hedge); or
c)	hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation (net investment hedge).

The group documents, at the inception of the transaction, the relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management objectives and strategy for undertaking various hedging transactions. The group also documents its assessment, both at hedge inception and on an ongoing basis, on whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items. The fair values of various derivative instruments used for hedging purposes are disclosed in note 19. The full fair value of a hedging derivative is classified as a non-current asset or liability when the remaining hedged item is more than 12 months; it is classified as a current asset or liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged item is less than 12 months. Trading derivatives are classified as a current asset or liability.

Fair value hedges

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in the income statement, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk. The group applies fair value hedge accounting to hedge the fair value interest rate risk associated with fixed rate borrowings. The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of interest rate swaps hedging fixed rate borrowings is recognised in the income statement within finance costs. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised in the income statement within other operating expenses – net. Changes in the fair value of the hedged fixed rate borrowings attributable to interest rate risk are recognised in the income statement within finance costs. If the hedging relationship no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the adjustment to the carrying amount of a hedged item for which the effective interest method is used, is amortised to profit or loss over the period to maturity (pull to par).

Derivatives at fair value through profit or loss

Certain derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting and are accounted for at fair value through profit or loss. Changes in the fair value of these derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognised immediately in the income statement within other operating expenses.

1.15

Inventories

Materials, consumable stores, work in progress and finished goods are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the cost of completion and selling expenses. In general, cost is determined on a first-infirst- out basis and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring, manufacturing and transporting the inventory to its present location. The cost of manufactured goods includes direct expenditure and an appropriate proportion of manufacturing overheads. Provision is made for obsolete and slow moving inventory.Costs that are incurred in or benefit the construction materials process, are accumulated as stockpiles and consist of aggregates finished product. Stockpiles are verified via monthly surveys of estimated tonnes and are valued based on cost of production per tonne. Net realisable value tests are performed annually and represent the estimated future sales price of the product, based on prevailing prices, less estimated costs to completion and sale. Property development costs held as inventory, which is property held for development and resale, are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

1.16

Construction contracts

A construction contract is a contract specifically negotiated for the construction of an asset or a combination of assets that are closely interrelated or interdependent in terms of their design, technology, and functions, or their ultimate purpose or use.

A group of contracts is treated as a single construction contract when the group of contracts is negotiated as a single package and the contracts are so interrelated that they are, in effect, part of a single project with an overall profit margin and are performed concurrently or in a continuous sequence.

Contract costs are recognised when incurred. When the outcome of a construction contract cannot be estimated reliably, contract revenue is recognised only to the extent of contract costs incurred that are likely to be recoverable. When the outcome of a construction contract can be estimated reliably and it is probable that the contract will be profitable, contract revenue is recognised using the percentage of completion method. When it is probable that total contract costs will exceed total contract revenue, the expected loss is recognised as an expense immediately.

The group uses the “percentage of completion method” to determine the appropriate revenue to recognise in a given period. The stage of completion is measured with reference to the contract costs or major activity incurred up to the statement of financial position date as a percentage of total estimated costs or major activity for each contract. Costs incurred in the year in connection with future activity on a contract are excludedfrom contract costs in determining the stage of completion and are presented as contracts in progress. The group also presents as contracts in progress the gross amount due from customers for contract work for all contracts in progress for which costs incurred plus recognised profits (less recognised losses) exceed progress billings. Progress billings not yet paid by customers and retention are included in trade and other receivables. The group presents as a liability (excess billings over work done) the gross amount due to customers for contract work for all contracts in progress for which progress billings exceed costs incurred plus recognised profits (less recognised losses).

1.17

Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value and are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment.

1.18

Cash and cash equivalents

For the purpose of the statement of cash flow, cash and cash equivalents comprise bank balances and cash with original maturities of three months or less and also include bank overdrafts repayable on demand. Cash and cash equivalents are reflected at year end bank statement balance. Where bank overdrafts and cash balances are with the same financial institution and right of set-off exists, they are netted off for disclosure purposes.

1.19

Non-current assets (or disposal groups) held for sale

Non-current assets (or disposal groups) are classified as assets held for sale and stated at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell if their carrying amount is recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continued use.

1.20

Trade and other payables

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Issued share capital is stated in the statement of changes in equity at the amount of the proceeds received less directly attributable issue costs. Cost of share options issued after 7 November 2002 have been charged to stated capital as described in note 1.25(d).

1.21

Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

1.22

Borrowings

Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently stated at amortised cost; any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the income statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method. Where the fair value of the borrowings have been hedged, and qualify for hedge accounting, then the gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk is recognised in the income statement.

Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the group has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the statement of financial position date.

1.23

Capitalisation of borrowing costs

Borrowing costs, incurred in respect of property developments, mining assets or capital work in progress, that require a substantial period to prepare assets for their intended use, are capitalised up to the date that the development of the asset is ready for its intended use. The amount of borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation is the actual borrowing costs incurred on the borrowing during the period less any investment income on the temporary investment of these borrowings. Other borrowing costs are recognised directly in the income statement when incurred.

1.24

Taxation

The taxation expense represents the sum of the current taxation payable (local and international), deferred taxation and Secondary Taxation on Companies. The current taxation payable is based on the taxable income for the year. Taxable income differs from net income as reported in the income statement because it includes items of income and expense that are taxable or deductible in other periods and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The group’s liability for current taxation uses relevant rates that have been enacted or subsequently enacted by the statement of financial position date. Deferred taxation is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method in respect of temporary differences which arise from differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding taxation basis used in the computation of taxable income. Deferred taxation liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences and deferred taxation assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable income will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised. The carrying value of deferred taxation assets is reviewed at each statement of financial position date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable income will be available to allow part of the asset to be recovered.

Current enacted taxation rates are used to determine deferred income taxation. The principal temporary differences arise from depreciation on property, plant and equipment, various provisions, contracting allowances and taxation losses carried forward.

Secondary Taxation on Companies is recognised as part of the taxation charge in the income statement when the related dividend is declared.

1.25

Employee benefits

The accounting policies relating to employee benefits can be categorised into five areas, as follows:

Pension obligations

The group participates in a group defined benefit plan, a number of group defined contribution plans and a number of multi-employer industry plans. The pension plans are funded by payments from employees and by relevant group companies, taking account of the recommendations ofindependent qualified actuaries. All plans and their assets are managed in separate trustee administered funds. The plans are governed by the Pension Funds Act.

a.i

Pension obligations – defined contribution plans

The group’s pension accounting costs for the defined contribution plans and multi-employer industry plans are limited to the annually determined contributions.

a.ii

Pension obligations – defined benefit plans

For the defined benefit plan, the pension accounting costs are assessed using the projected unit credit method. Under this method, the cost of providing pensions is charged to the income statement, to spread the regular cost over the service lives of employees in accordance with the advice of qualified actuaries that carry out a full valuation of the plans annually. The liability or asset recognised in the statement of financial position in respect of defined benefit pension plans is the difference between the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the statement of financial position date and the fair value of plan assets, together with adjustments for unrecognised actuarial gains or losses and past service costs. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using appropriate interest rates. An asset is recognised to the extent that the group has control over such asset.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are charged or credited to the income statement immediately. Past service costs are also recognised immediately in the income statement. The limit on the amount of pension fund surplus that can be recognised has been considered.

Post-employment obligations

One group company provides post-employment medical costs for certain of its retirees. The expected costs of these benefits are accrued over the period of employment using a methodology similar to that of defined benefit plans. A valuation of this obligation is carried out on a periodic basis by professionally qualified independent actuaries. The post-employment obligations are not funded.

Leave pay

Employee entitlements to annual leave are recognised when they accrue to employees. Full provision is made for the estimated liability for annual leave, as a result of services by employees, up to the statement of financial position date.

Equity compensation benefits

Share options and appreciation rights are granted to employees in terms of the schemes detailed in note 23.4.3. The net cost of share options, issued after 7 November 2002, calculated as the difference between the fair value of such options at grant date and the price at which the options were granted (calculated at the 30-day volume weighted average price at grant date), are expensed over their vesting periods on a straight-line basis. The fair value of the share options is measured using the Black- Scholes pricing model. These share options are not subsequently revalued.

Options exercised are equity settled through a fresh issue of shares or through a repurchase and re-issue of shares by the group.

Profit sharing and bonus plans

A liability for employee benefits, in the form of profit sharing and bonus plans, is recognised in trade and other payables when there is no realistic alternative but to settle the liability and if at least one of the following conditions is met:

-	there is a formal plan and the amounts to be paid are capable of being reliably estimated; or
-	past practice has created a valid expectation by employees that they will receive a bonus/profit sharing and amounts can be determined before the time of issuing the financial statements.

1.26

Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate of the amount of the obligation can be made. Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to passage of time is recognised as interest expense.

1.27

Environmental rehabilitation

Estimated long term environmental obligations, comprising rehabilitation, mine and asbestos dump closure, are based on the group’s environmental management plans in compliance with current technological, environmental and regulatory requirements. The net present value of expected rehabilitation cost estimates are recognised and provided for in full in the financial statements. The estimates are reviewed annually and are discounted using rates that reflect inflation and the time value of money. Annual changes in the provision consist of finance costs relating to the change in the present value of the provision and inflationary increases in the provision estimate, as well as changes in estimates. The present value of environmental disturbances created are capitalised to mining assets against an increase in the rehabilitation provision. The rehabilitation asset is amortised as noted in the group’s accounting policy. Rehabilitation projects undertaken, included in the estimates, are charged to the provision as incurred.

1.28

Leased assets

Where assets are acquired under finance lease agreements that transfer to the group substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership, they are capitalised at the lower of the fair value of the leased asset or the present value of the minimum lease payments. The capital element of the leasing commitment is disclosed under non-current liabilities. Lease rentals are treated as consisting of capital and interest elements, using the effective interest rate method.

Leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of their useful lives or lease term. The interest amount is charged to the income statement and the capital elements reduce the liability.

1.29

Operating leases

Leases of assets under which all the risks and benefits of ownership are effectively retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Total rental obligations under operating leases are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease, irrespective of the payment terms.

1.30

Dividends paid

Dividend distribution to the company’s shareholders is recognised as a liability in the group’s financial statements in the period in which the dividends are approved by the company’s shareholders.

1.31

Earnings per share

a)	Earnings per share is based on attributable profit for the year divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year. Fully diluted earnings per share is presented when the inclusion of potential ordinary shares has a dilutive effect on earnings per share.
b)	Earnings per share from continuing operations is based on attributable profit for the year from continuing operations divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year. Fully diluted earnings per share is presented when the inclusion of potential ordinary shares has a dilutive effect on earnings per share.

1.32

Headline earnings per share

Headline earnings per share is based on the same calculation as in 1.31 above except that attributable profit specifically excludes items as set out in Circular 8/2007 “Interpretation of Statement of Investment Practice No 1: Headline Earnings” issued by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants. Fully diluted headline earnings per share is presented when the inclusion of potential ordinary shares has a dilutive effect on headline earnings per share.

1.33

Contingencies and commitments

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events and whose existence will be confirmed only by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events not wholly within the control of the group, or a present obligation that arises from past events but is not recognised because it is not probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, or the amount of the obligation cannot be measured with sufficient reliability. Contingencies principally consist of contract specific third party obligations underwritten by banking institutions. Items are classified as commitments where the group commits itself to future transactions, particularly in the acquisition of property, plant and equipment.

1.34

Related party transactions

All subsidiaries, joint ventures and associated companies of the group are related parties. A list of the major subsidiaries, joint ventures and associated companies are included on pages 251 to 253 of this annual report. All transactions entered into with subsidiaries and associated companies were under termsno more favourable than those with third parties and have been eliminated in the consolidated group accounts. Directors and senior management emoluments as well as transactions with other related parties, are set out in note 24.1. There were no other material contracts with related parties.

1.35

Discontinued operations

A discontinued operation is a component of an entity that either has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale and

	represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations;
	is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations; or
	is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

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