Significant Judgements and Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in compliance with FRS 102 Section 1A requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual outcomes may differ from these estimates.
Depreciation of Operating Assets
The company exercises judgement in determining the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of its operating assets for the purpose of calculating depreciation charges. These estimates are based on management's assessment of the expected period over which the assets will generate economic benefits, taking into account factors such as expected usage, maintenance programmes, technological developments and historical experience. Changes in these assumptions may result in a material adjustment to future depreciation charges and the carrying values of the related assets.
Prepayments and Accruals of Fixed and Variable Overheads
The company makes estimates in determining the appropriate recognition of prepayments and accruals relating to fixed and variable overhead costs at the reporting date. These estimates require management to assess the extent to which costs incurred relate to future accounting periods and to identify obligations incurred but not yet invoiced or paid. The valuation of accruals may involve estimating the amount of services received or costs incurred based on contractual arrangements, historical trends and information available at the year end. Actual amounts settled may differ from those estimated, and any differences are recognised in the period in which they become known.