This statement includes the consolidated results of the BHP Billiton Group, comprising BHP Billiton Limited and BHP Billiton Plc, for the half year ended 31 December 2011 compared with the half year ended 31 December 2010.

The results are prepared in accordance with IFRS and are presented in US dollars.
1. Revenue - Up by 9.7% to USD 37,480 million
2. Profit - Down by 5.5% to USD 9.941 million

Highlights
1. Strong financial results with Underlying EBITDA up 8% to USD 18.7 billion and Underlying EBIT up 6% to USD 15.7 billion. Attributable profit down 6% and Attributable profit excluding exceptional items down 7% to USD 9.9 billion

2. Underlying EBIT margin remained in excess of 40% despite significant volatility across many of our core markets while Underlying return on capital was 28%

3. Record production for two commodities and six operations.

4. Robust operating cash flow of USD 12.3 billion and a rigorous project approvals process underpin our fundamental commitment to a solid A credit rating

5. Gearing increased to 25% following the successful acquisition of Petrohawk Energy Corporation. We will continue to focus efforts on the most productive areas of our high quality Onshore US acreage as we strive to maximize economic returns from our investment program.

6. Interim dividend of 55 US cents per share, up 20%.