Board responsibilities

The Board normally meets eight times a year, as well as annually devoting two days to a Board strategy conference. The Board has set out a clear Schedule of Matters Reserved for Board Decision in order to ensure its overall control of the Group's affairs. These include the determination of strategy, the approval of financial statements, major acquisitions and disposals, authority levels for expenditure, treasury policies, risk management, Group governance policies and succession planning for senior executives.

All Directors have access to the services of the Company Secretary and may take independent professional advice at the Company's expense in conducting their duties. The Company provides insurance cover and indemnities for its Directors and officers.

All new Directors receive a personalised induction programme, tailored to their experience, background and particular areas of focus, which is designed to develop their knowledge and understanding of the Group's culture and operations. The programme will usually include an overview of the business model and Board processes, meetings with the Executive team and senior managers, site visits at home and abroad and briefings on key issues (including social, ethical and environmental (SEE) issues). Directors will also receive an induction to those Board Committees he or she will serve on.

The need for Director training is regularly assessed by the Board and regular training sessions are arranged to provide an opportunity for upskilling of the Directors on a variety of areas relevant to the Group’s business, including SEE issues.

The Board usually holds at least one meeting overseas each year to facilitate the Directors’ understanding of the Groups international operations.