The majority of Gallaher Group shareholders approved Japan Tobacco’s proposed acquisition of Gallaher at the court meeting held in London on 9 March.

Following the court meeting, Gallaher shareholders also voted in favour of the implementation of the scheme of arrangement at the extraordinary general meeting. JT expects the scheme of arrangement to become effective on 18 April 2007, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of any outstanding conditions set out in the scheme document.
Earlier last week, JT said that in addition to the unconditional clearance by the EU, announced on 21 February, Russia (The Federal Antimonopoly Service) and South Africa (The Competition Commission) approved JT’s proposed acquisition of Gallaher without any conditions. (pi)