Operating profit stood at GBP2.23 billion, compared to GBP2.16 billion in fiscal 2007. Profit for fiscal 2008 was GBP1.59 billion, compared to GBP1.56 billion in fiscal 2007. Basic earnings per share were 59.3 pence, compared to 55.4 pence in fiscal 2007.

Paul Walsh, chief executive of Diageo, said: "Our financial results in recent years have mirrored the consistent improvement we have achieved in our business and we finish the year with a stronger business. We enter the new financial year facing slowing global GDP growth and more challenging global economic trends, but given the strength and diversity of Diageo's business we believe we can deliver organic operating profit growth for the coming year within our range of 7% to 9%."