BP (BP)

A joint venture is a contractual arrangement whereby two or more parties (venturers) undertake an economic activity that is subject to joint control. Joint control exists only when the strategic financial and operating decisions relating to the activity require the unanimous consent of the venturers. A jointly controlled entity is a joint venture that involves the establishment of a company, partnership or other entity to engage in economic activity that the Group jointly controls with its fellow venturers.

The results, assets and liabilities of a jointly controlled entity are incorporated in these financial statements using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method, the investment in a jointly controlled entity is carried in the balance sheet at cost plus post-acquisition changes in the Group’s share of net assets of the jointly controlled entity, less distributions received and less any impairment in value of the investment. The Group income statement reflects the Group’s share of the results after tax of the jointly controlled entity. The Group statement of recognized income and expense reflects the Group’s share of any income and expense recognized by the jointly controlled entity outside profit and loss.

Financial statements of jointly controlled entities are prepared for the same reporting year as the Group. Where necessary, adjustments are made to those financial statements to bring the accounting policies used into line with those of the Group.

Unrealized gains on transactions between the Group and its jointly controlled entities are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the jointly controlled entities. Unrealized losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred.

The Group ceases to use the equity method of accounting on the date from which it no longer has joint control over, or significant influence in the joint venture, or when the interest becomes held for sale.

Certain of the Group’s activities, particularly in the Exploration and Production segment, are conducted through joint ventures where the venturers have a direct ownership interest in and jointly control the assets of the venture. The income, expenses, assets and liabilities of these jointly controlled assets are included in the consolidated financial statements in proportion to the Group’s interest.