Notes to the Group annual financial statements | Note 7.1

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at year-end in the countries where the Company’s subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures operate and generate taxable income. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

The tax expense for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the income statement, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case, the tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity respectively.

Uncertain tax positions are considered by the Group at the level of the individual uncertainty or group of related uncertainties.

Critical accounting estimates and assumptions

There are transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. Amounts accrued are based on management’s interpretation of country-specific tax law and the likelihood of settlement. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the current income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable income will be available in the future against which these can be utilised. Future taxable income is estimated based on business plans which include estimates and assumptions regarding economic growth, interest rates, inflation and competitive forces.