Shares in G4S were up on the FTSE 100 in morning trading after the security solutions group reported a rise in profit before interest, tax and amortisation (PBITA) in the half year ended 30 June.

Group turnover was reported as rising four per cent to £3.6 billion, while PBITA was up three per cent to £238.1 million.

G4S said that it would be increasing its interim dividend by five per cent to 3.17 pence per share.

Nick Buckles, Chief Executive Officer of G4S, said, "This is a solid set of results, with operating profits up 3% compared to the same period last year and excellent cost control helping margins to hold firm at 6.6%. This demonstrates a good performance in a market environment that continues to be challenging as a result of the slow pace of the global economic recovery and ongoing impact of low inflation and interest rates.

"Our performance is a direct result of our differentiated strategy and the spread and international diversity of our operations, with New Markets growing organically by 7%. Our focus on delivering innovative, outsourced solutions to customers, helping them to drive efficiency and reduce costs within their businesses, will ensure the group remains well positioned for strong long term growth once economies recover.

"We expect organic growth to improve in the second half, whilst we continue to maintain our discipline on margins and cash generation."

By 09:45 shares in G4S were up 1.13 per cent on the FTSE 100 to 249.90.

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