Cable and Wireless announces 57% jump in group profits

Communications company Cable and Wireless have announced group profit before income tax and exceptionals up 57% to £308m (€386m) for the year to March 31.

Total operating profit was up £181m (€227m) to £284m (€356m).

Cable and Wireless boss Richard Lapthorne said: "We're delighted to recommend a full year dividend of 7.5 pence per share, an increase of 28% on last year, demonstrating the Board's confidence in the prospects for both business units for 2008/09."

The company introduced two standalone business units in 2006 - the Europe, Asia and US business now operates separates from the international division.