British American Tobacco Plc, the world's second-biggest cigarette maker, said it was on track for a highly satisfactory year as it beat forecasts with a 23 percent rise in nine-month earnings on Thursday.

Growth was driven by emerging economies. BAT's statement mentioned strong performances in Russia, Turkey, Pakistan and Bangladesh and difficulties in Canada and Japan.

BAT welcomed a decision by the British government on Wednesday to stop short of introducing a complete ban on smoking in public places in England and Wales.

BAT shares hit a high of 1,212 pence in early trading, just short of their recent record of 1,223 pence, but, in a falling market, eased back to 1,193 pence by 1010 GMT, down 0.2 percent.

Copyright Reuters, 2005