France Telecom shares take a fall

NEWS Shares in France Telecom fell up to four per cent this morning after the company said dividends could be paid in shares as the company struggles to reduce its E65m (£39.6m) debt mountain. A decision will be made before the annual shareholders meeting in May, although French regulations will require the company to also offer shareholders the option of cash payments. Shares gained some ground in later trading to stand 2.86 per cent down at E28.85 (£17.50) by 10:30(GMT).