[16] Cash and cash equivalents 

The item comprises:

[ XLS ]

€ million

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2006

Cheques, cash and bank balances

292.6

264.2

Short-term cash investments

134.0

195.9

 

426.6

460.1

Changes in cash and cash equivalents as defined by IAS 7 are presented in the cash flow statement. This item includes short-term receivables due from related parties and affiliates amounting to €3.0 million (2006: €24.8 million).

Last update 18.02.2008, © Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany