UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM N-CSR

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

 

Investment Company Act file number

811-5497

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

55 Water Street, New York, NY

 

10041

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip code)

 

Robert I. Frenkel, Esq.
Legg Mason & Co., LLC
100 First Stamford Place, 4
th Floor
Stamford, CT 06902

(Name and address of agent for service)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

(800) 451-2010

 

 

Date of fiscal year end:

October 31

 

 

Date of reporting period:

October 31, 2008

 

 



 

ITEM 1.  REPORT TO STOCKHOLDERS.

 

                The Annual Report to Stockholders is filed herewith.

 



 

 

ANNUAL REPORT / OCTOBER 31, 2008

 

 

Western Asset

Municipal High Income

Fund Inc.

(MHF)

 

Managed by  WESTERN ASSET

 

 

INVESTMENT PRODUCTS: NOT FDIC INSURED · NO BANK GUARANTEE · MAY LOSE VALUE

 


 

Fund objective

 

The Fund seeks high current income exempt from federal income taxes.

 

What’s inside

 

Letter from the chairman

 

I

 

 

 

Fund overview

 

1

 

 

 

Fund at a glance

 

6

 

 

 

Schedule of investments

 

7

 

 

 

Statement of assets and liabilities

 

18

 

 

 

Statement of operations

 

19

 

 

 

Statements of changes in net assets

 

20

 

 

 

Financial highlights

 

21

 

 

 

Notes to financial statements

 

22

 

 

 

Report of independent register public accounting firm

 

27

 

 

 

Additional information

 

28

 

 

 

Annual chief executive officer and chief financial officer certifications

 

34

 

 

 

Dividend reinvestment plan

 

35

 

 

 

Important tax information

 

37

 

Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (“LMPFA”) is the Fund’s investment manager and Western Asset Management Company (“Western Asset”) is the Fund’s subadviser. LMPFA and Western Asset are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Legg Mason, Inc.

 


 

Letter from the chairman

 

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

Economic growth in the U.S. was mixed during the 12-month reporting period ended October 31, 2008. Looking back, third quarter 2007 U.S. gross domestic product (“GDP”)i growth was a strong 4.8%. However, continued weakness in the housing market, an ongoing credit crunch and soaring oil and food prices then took their toll on the economy, as fourth quarter 2007 GDP declined 0.2%. The economy then expanded 0.9% and 2.8% during the first and second quarters of 2008, respectively. This rebound was due, in part, to rising exports that were buoyed by a weakening U.S. dollar, and solid consumer spending, which was aided by the government’s tax rebate program. The dollar’s rally and the end of the rebate program, combined with other strains on the economy, then caused GDP to take a step backward in the third quarter of 2008. According to the preliminary estimate released by the U.S. Department of Commerce, third quarter 2008 GDP declined 0.5%.

 

The latest Bureau of Economic Research release indicates that the U.S. is currently in recession. Evidence supporting this conclusion includes a slowdown in consumer spending, with four consecutive months of declining retail sales from July through October 2008. According to the Department of Commerce, October’s 2.8% fall in retail sales is the sharpest decline since it began tracking this data in 1992. In terms of the job market, the U.S. Department of Labor reported that payroll employment declined in each of the first 10 months of 2008. Year-to-date through October, roughly 1.2 million jobs have been shed and the unemployment rate now stands at 6.5%, its highest level since 1994.

 

Ongoing issues related to the housing and subprime mortgage markets and seizing credit markets prompted the Federal Reserve Board (“Fed”)ii to take aggressive and, in some cases, unprecedented actions. Beginning in September 2007, the Fed reduced the federal funds rateiii from 5.25% to 4.75%. This marked the first such reduction since June 2003. The Fed then reduced the federal funds rate on six additional occasions through April 2008, bringing the federal funds rate to 2.00%. The Fed then shifted gears in the face of mounting inflationary prices and a weakening U.S. dollar. At its

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

I

 


 

Letter from the chairman continued

 

meetings in June, August and September 2008, the Fed held rates steady. Then, on October 8, 2008, in a global coordination effort with six central banks around the world, interest rates were cut in an attempt to reduce the strains in the global financial markets. At that time, the Fed lowered the federal funds rate from 2.00% to 1.50%. The Fed again cut rates from 1.50% to 1.00% at its regularly scheduled meeting on October 29, 2008. In conjunction with its October meeting, the Fed stated: “The pace of economic activity appears to have slowed markedly, owing importantly to a decline in consumer expenditures. ... Moreover, the intensification of financial market turmoil is likely to exert additional restraint on spending, partly by further reducing the ability of households and businesses to obtain credit.”

 

In addition to the interest rate cuts, the Fed took several actions to improve liquidity in the credit markets. In March 2008, the Fed established a new lending program allowing certain brokerage firms, known as primary dealers, to also borrow from its discount window. Also in March, the Fed played a major role in facilitating the purchase of Bear Stearns by JPMorgan Chase. In mid-September 2008, it announced an $85 billion rescue plan for ailing AIG and pumped $70 billion into the financial system as Lehman Brothers’ bankruptcy and mounting troubles at other financial firms roiled the markets.

 

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has also taken an active role in attempting to stabilize the financial system, as it orchestrated the government’s takeover of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in September. In addition, on October 3, 2008, the Treasury’s $700 billion Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”) was approved by Congress and signed into law by President Bush. As part of TARP, the Treasury had planned to make a $250 billion capital injection into some of the nation’s largest banks. However, in November 2008 (after the reporting period ended), Treasury Secretary Paulson said the Treasury no longer intended to use TARP to purchase bad loans and other troubled financial assets.

 

During the 12-month reporting period ended October 31, 2008, both short- and long-term Treasury yields experienced periods of extreme volatility. Investors were initially focused on the subprime segment of the mortgage-backed market. These concerns broadened, however, to include a wide range of financial institutions and markets. As a result, other fixed-income instruments also experienced increased price volatility. This unrest triggered several “flights to quality,” causing Treasury yields to move lower (and their prices higher), while riskier segments of the market saw their yields move higher (and their prices lower). This was particularly true toward the end of the reporting period, as the turmoil in the financial markets and sharply falling stock prices caused investors to flee securities that were perceived to be risky, even high-quality corporate bonds and high-grade municipal bonds.

 

II

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 


 

At one point in September, the yield available from the three-month Treasury bill fell to 0.04%, as investors were essentially willing to forgo any return potential in order to access the relative safety of government-backed securities. During the 12 months ended October 31, 2008, two-year Treasury yields fell from 3.94% to 1.56%. Over the same time frame, 10-year Treasury yields moved from 4.48% to 4.01%.

 

The municipal bond market underperformed its taxable bond counterpart over the 12 months ended October 31, 2008. Over that period, the Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Indexiv and the Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Indexv returned -3.30% and 0.30%, respectively. Even though municipal securities typically hold up fairly well during periods of market volatility, the aforementioned flight to quality into Treasuries negatively impacted the tax-free bond market.

 

A special note regarding increased market volatility

 

In recent months, we have experienced a series of events that have impacted the financial markets and created concerns among both novice and seasoned investors alike. In particular, we have witnessed the failure and consolidation of several storied financial institutions, periods of heightened market volatility, and aggressive actions by the U.S. federal government to steady the financial markets and restore investor confidence. While we hope that the worst is over in terms of the issues surrounding the credit and housing crises, it is likely that the fallout will continue to impact the financial markets and the U.S. economy during the remainder of the year and into 2009 as well.

 

Like all asset management firms, Legg Mason has not been immune to these difficult and, in some ways, unprecedented times. However, today’s challenges have only strengthened our resolve to do everything we can to help you reach your financial goals. Now, as always, we remain committed to providing you with excellent service and a full spectrum of investment choices. And rest assured, we will continue to work hard to ensure that our investment managers make every effort to deliver strong long-term results.

 

We also remain committed to supplementing the support you receive from your financial advisor. One way we accomplish this is through our enhanced website, www.leggmason.com/cef. Here you can gain immediate access to many special features to help guide you through difficult times, including:

 

·  Fund prices and performance,

 

·  Market insights and commentaries from our portfolio managers, and

 

·  A host of educational resources.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

III

 


 

Letter from the chairman continued

 

During periods of market unrest, it is especially important to work closely with your financial advisor and remember that reaching one’s investment goals unfolds over time and through multiple market cycles. Time and again, history has shown that, over the long run, the markets have eventually recovered and grown.

 

Information about your fund

 

Please read on for a more detailed look at prevailing economic and market conditions during the Fund’s reporting period and to learn how those conditions have affected Fund performance.

 

Important information with regard to recent regulatory developments that may affect the Fund is contained in the Notes to Financial Statements included in this report.

 

As always, thank you for your confidence in our stewardship of your assets. We look forward to helping you meet your financial goals.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

R. Jay Gerken, CFA

Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

 

December 1, 2008

 

All index performance reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. Please note that an investor cannot invest directly in an index.

 

i

Gross domestic product (“GDP”) is the market value of all final goods and services produced within a country in a given period of time.

ii

The Federal Reserve Board (“Fed”) is responsible for the formulation of policies designed to promote economic growth, full employment, stable prices, and a sustainable pattern of international trade and payments.

iii

The federal funds rate is the rate charged by one depository institution on an overnight sale of immediately available funds (balances at the Federal Reserve) to another depository institution; the rate may vary from depository institution to depository institution and from day to day.

iv

The Barclays Capital (formerly Lehman Brothers) Municipal Bond Index is a market value weighted index of investment grade municipal bonds with maturities of one year or more.

v

The Barclays Capital (formerly Lehman Brothers) U.S. Aggregate Index is a broad-based bond index comprised of government, corporate, mortgage- and asset-backed issues, rated investment grade or higher, and having at least one year to maturity.

 

IV

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 


 

Fund overview

 

Q. What is the Fund’s investment strategy?

 

A. The Fund seeks high current income exempt from federal income taxes. The Fund invests primarily in intermediate- and long-term municipal debt securities issued by state and local governments. However, the Fund may invest in municipal obligations of any maturity. The Fund may invest in non-publicly traded municipal securities, zero-coupon municipal obligations, and non-appropriation or other municipal lease obligations.

 

At Western Asset Management Company (“Western Asset”), the Fund’s subadviser, we utilize a fixed-income team approach, with decisions derived from interaction among various investment management sector specialists. The sector teams are comprised of Western Asset’s senior portfolio managers, research analysts and an in-house economist. Under this team approach, management of client fixed-income portfolios will reflect a consensus of interdisciplinary views within the Western Asset organization.

 

Q. What were the overall market conditions during the Fund’s reporting period?

 

A. During the fiscal year, the U.S. bond market experienced periods of increased volatility. Changing perceptions regarding the economy, inflation and future Federal Reserve Board (“Fed”)i monetary policy caused bond prices to fluctuate. Two- and 10-year Treasury yields began the reporting period at 3.94% and 4.48%, respectively. Treasury yields moved lower—and their prices moved higher—toward the end of 2007 and during the first quarter of 2008, as concerns regarding the subprime mortgage market and a severe credit crunch caused a “flight to quality.” During this period, investors were drawn to the relative safety of Treasuries, while increased risk aversion caused other segments of the bond market to falter.

 

Treasury yields then moved higher in April, May and early June 2008, as the economy performed better than expected and inflation moved higher. Over this period, riskier fixed-income asset classes, such as high-yield bonds and emerging market debt rallied. However, the credit crunch resumed in mid-June, resulting in another flight to quality. Investors’ risk aversion then intensified in September and October 2008 given the severe disruptions in the global financial markets. During this time, virtually every asset class, with the exception of short-term Treasuries, performed poorly. At the end of the fiscal year, two- and 10-year Treasury yields were 1.56% and 4.01%, respectively.

 

The Fed attempted to stimulate economic growth by cutting the federal funds rateii from 5.25% to 2.00% from September 2007 through April 2008. It then held rates steady until October 2008, citing inflationary pressures triggered by soaring oil prices. However, with the global economy moving toward a

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

1

 


 

Fund overview continued

 

recession, oil prices falling sharply, and the financial markets in disarray, the Fed lowered interest rates twice in October 2008. The first cut occurred on October 8th, as the Fed and several other central banks around the world lowered rates in a coordinated effort. At that time, the Fed reduced the federal funds rate from 2.00% to 1.50%. Three weeks later, at its regularly scheduled meeting on October 29th, the Fed lowered rates from 1.50% to 1.00%. The Fed also left the door open to further actions, saying: “The Committee will monitor economic and financial developments carefully and will act as needed to promote sustainable economic growth and price stability.”

 

Tax-free bonds were not immune to the volatility in the financial markets during the reporting period. In addition to increased risk aversion, the municipal market was pressured by issues related to monoline bond insurers and a lack of liquidity. In addition, there were fears that an economic recession would negatively impact municipalities, as they would generate less tax revenues.

 

Q. How did we respond to these changing market conditions?

 

A. During the 12-month reporting period, two major themes played out as we had expected. First, the municipal yield curveiii steepened dramatically from a very flat to a more normal or, at various times, steep slope. Second, credit quality spreads significantly widened and deleveraging in the municipal market created an environment where demand for higher-quality tax-free securities increased. As a result of these developments, we extended the Fund’s durationiv and added some attractively valued lower-quality securities to the portfolio.

 

Performance review

 

For the 12 months ended October 31, 2008, Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. returned -9.02% based on its net asset value (“NAV”)v and -10.89% based on its New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) market price per share. The Fund’s unmanaged benchmark, the Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Indexvi, returned -3.30% over the same time frame. The Lipper High Yield Municipal Debt Closed-End Funds Category Averagevii returned -21.19% for the same period. Please note that Lipper performance returns are based on each fund’s NAV.

 

Certain investors may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax, and state and local taxes will apply. Capital gains, if any, are fully taxable. Please consult your personal tax or legal adviser.

 

During the 12-month period, the Fund made distributions to shareholders totaling $0.42 per share. The performance table on the next page shows the Fund’s 12-month total return based on its NAV and market price as of October 31, 2008. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

 

2

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

PERFORMANCE SNAPSHOT as of October 31, 2008 (unaudited)

 

PRICE PER SHARE

 

12-MONTH
TOTAL RETURN*

$7.08 (NAV)

 

-9.02 %

$6.53 (Market Price)

 

-10.89 %

 

All figures represent past performance and are not a guarantee of future results.

 

*

Total returns are based on changes in NAV or market price, respectively. Total returns assume the reinvestment of all distributions in additional shares in accordance with the Fund’s Dividend Reinvestment Plan.

 

Q. What were the leading contributors to performance?

 

A. An overweight to higher-quality issues contributed to the Fund’s relative performance as these positions outperformed lower-rated securities during the reporting period. An overall shorter duration versus the benchmark also helped performance as longer duration securities underperformed their shorter duration counterparts. An overweight to the Pre-refundedviii sector of the municipal market was a positive contributor as these securities benefited from the flight to quality that occurred throughout the fixed-income market. An underweight to the Housing sector was also a relative contributor as this sector performed poorly due to negative developments in the residential housing market. A lack of exposure to the Tobacco sector benefited relative performance as this was one of the worst performing areas in the municipal bond market.

 

Q. What were the leading detractors from performance?

 

A. An overweight to the Health Care1 sector detracted from relative performance as spreads within this sector widened significantly during the fiscal year. The Fund’s exposure to the Industrial Development Revenue/Pollution Control Revenue sector was a detractor from performance as these securities, which are essentially backed by corporations, experienced significant spread widening during the reporting period. While the Fund’s duration was shorter than that of its benchmark, it held certain longer duration positions in the portfolio when the reporting period began. We also added some longer duration securities to the portfolio in the spring of 2008. These holdings detracted from results due, in part, to continued deleveraging which caused longer maturity municipal securities to lag their shorter maturity counterparts.

 

1

Health Care consists of the following industries: Hospitals/Nursing Facilities, Pharmacy Services, Medical Wholesale Drug Distributors, Drug Delivery Systems, Medical Products/Instruments, Medical & Laboratory Testing, Healthcare Cost Containment and Scientific Instruments.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

3

 


 

Fund overview continued

 

Looking for additional information?

 

The Fund is traded under the symbol “MHF” and its closing market price is available in most newspapers under the NYSE listings. The daily NAV is available on-line under the symbol “XMHFX” on most financial websites. Barron’s and The Wall Street Journal’s Monday edition both carry closed-end fund tables that provide additional information. In addition, the Fund issues a quarterly press release that can be found on most major financial websites, as well as www.leggmason.com/cef.

 

In a continuing effort to provide information concerning the Fund, shareholders may call 1-888-777-0102 (toll free), Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time, for the Fund’s current NAV, market price and other information.

 

Thank you for your investment in Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. As always, we appreciate that you have chosen us to manage your assets and we remain focused on achieving the Fund’s investment goals.

 

Sincerely,

 

Western Asset Management Company

 

November 18, 2008

 

4

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

The information provided is not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results or investment advice. Views expressed may differ from those of the firm as a whole.

 

RISKS: The Fund may use derivatives, such as options and futures, which can be illiquid, may disproportionately increase losses, and have a potentially large impact on Fund performance. High-yield bonds involve greater credit and liquidity risks than investment grade bonds. As interest rates rise, bond prices fall, reducing the value of the Fund’s share price. Certain investors may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax, and state and local taxes will apply. Capital gains, if any, are fully taxable.

 

All index performance reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. Please note that an investor cannot invest directly in an index.

 

i

The Federal Reserve Board (“Fed”) is responsible for the formulation of policies designed to promote economic growth, full employment, stable prices, and a sustainable pattern of international trade and payments.

ii

The federal funds rate is the rate charged by one depository institution on an overnight sale of immediately available funds (balances at the Federal Reserve) to another depository institution; the rate may vary from depository institution to depository institution and from day to day.

iii

The yield curve is the graphical depiction of the relationship between the yield on bonds of the same credit quality but different maturities.

iv

Duration is the measure of the price sensitivity of a fixed-income security to an interest rate change of 100 basis points. Calculation is based on the weighted average of the present values for all cash flows.

v

Net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated by subtracting total liabilities and outstanding preferred stock (if any) from the closing value of all securities held by the Fund (plus all other assets) and dividing the result (total net assets) by the total number of the common shares outstanding. The NAV fluctuates with changes in the market prices of securities in which the Fund has invested. However, the price at which an investor may buy or sell shares of the Fund is at the Fund’s market price as determined by supply of and demand for the Fund’s shares.

vi

The Barclays Capital (formerly Lehman Brothers) Municipal Bond Index is a market value weighted index of investment grade municipal bonds with maturities of one year or more.

vii

Lipper, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reuters, provides independent insight on global collective investments. Returns are based on the 12-month period ended October 31, 2008, including the reinvestment of all distributions, including returns of capital, if any, calculated among the 14 funds in the Fund’s Lipper category.

viii

A pre-refunded bond is a bond in which the original security has been replaced by an escrow, usually consisting of treasuries or agencies, which has been structured to pay principal and interest and any call premium, either to a call date (in the case of a pre-refunded bond), or to maturity (in the case of an escrowed to maturity bond).

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

5

 


 

Fund at a glance (unaudited)

 

INVESTMENT BREAKDOWN (%) As a percent of total investments — October 31, 2008

 

 

6

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

Schedule of investments

October 31, 2008

 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

FACE
AMOUNT

 

SECURITY

 

VALUE

 

MUNICIPAL BONDS — 96.2%

 

 

 

 

 

Alaska — 0.6%

 

 

 

$

1,055,000

 

Alaska Industrial Development & Export Authority Revenue, Williams Lynxs Alaska Cargoport, 8.125% due 5/1/31(a)

 

$       911,699

 

 

 

Arizona — 1.6%

 

 

 

1,720,000

 

Phoenix, AZ, IDA, MFH Revenue, Ventana Palms Apartments Project, 8.000% due 10/1/34*

 

1,853,266

 

1,000,000

 

Salt Verde, AZ Financial Corp., Gas Revenue, 5.000% due 12/1/37

 

613,230

 

 

 

Total Arizona

 

2,466,496

 

 

 

Arkansas — 1.1%

 

 

 

 

 

Arkansas State Development Financing Authority:

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

Hospital Revenue, Washington Regional Medical Center, 7.375% due 2/1/29(b)

 

1,061,200

 

600,000

 

Industrial Facilities Revenue, Potlatch Corp. Projects, 7.750% due 8/1/25(a)

 

528,138

 

 

 

Total Arkansas

 

1,589,338

 

 

 

California — 6.1%

 

 

 

1,500,000

 

Barona, CA, Band of Mission Indians, GO, 8.250% due 12/1/20(c)

 

1,443,885

 

2,000,000

 

California Health Facilities Financing Authority Revenue, Refunding, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 5.000% due 11/15/27

 

1,757,380

 

 

 

Golden State Tobacco Securitization Corp., California Tobacco Settlement Revenue:

 

 

 

2,000,000

 

Asset Backed, 7.800% due 6/1/42(b)

 

2,330,960

 

1,000,000

 

Enhanced Asset Backed, 5.625% due 6/1/38(b)

 

1,075,040

 

600,000

 

Redding, CA, Redevelopment Agency, Tax Allocation, Shastec Redevelopment Project, 5.000% due 9/1/29

 

500,598

 

1,865,000

 

Vallejo, CA, COP, Touro University, 7.375% due 6/1/29(b)

 

1,965,262

 

 

 

Total California

 

9,073,125

 

 

 

Colorado — 5.3%

 

 

 

 

 

Colorado Educational & Cultural Facilities Authority Revenue:

 

 

 

740,000

 

Charter School, Peak to Peak Project, 7.500% due 8/15/21(b)

 

816,198

 

 

 

Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy:

 

 

 

680,000

 

5.250% due 6/15/25

 

570,622

 

510,000

 

5.125% due 6/15/32

 

392,542

 

785,000

 

Elbert County Charter, 7.375% due 3/1/35

 

692,582

 

810,000

 

Unrefunded, University of Denver Project, FGIC, 5.250% due 3/1/23

 

793,970

 

4,000,000

 

Public Authority for Colorado Energy, Natural Gas Purchase Revenue, 6.125% due 11/15/23

 

3,256,760

 

1,000,000

 

Reata South Metropolitan District, CO, GO, 7.250% due 6/1/37

 

784,590

 

500,000

 

Southlands, CO, Metropolitan District No. 1, GO, 7.125% due 12/1/34(b)

 

591,460

 

 

 

Total Colorado

 

7,898,724

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

7

 


 

Schedule of investments continued

October 31, 2008

 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

FACE AMOUNT

 

SECURITY

 

VALUE

 

 

 

District of Columbia — 1.3%

 

 

 

$

1,895,000

 

District of Columbia COP, District Public Safety & Emergency, AMBAC, 5.500% due 1/1/20

 

$    1,922,838

 

 

 

Florida — 10.1%

 

 

 

890,000

 

Beacon Lakes, FL, Community Development District, Special Assessment, 6.900% due 5/1/35

 

749,852

 

1,500,000

 

Bonnet Creek Resort Community Development District, Special Assessment, 7.500% due 5/1/34

 

1,373,595

 

 

 

Capital Projects Finance Authority, FL:

 

 

 

2,000,000

 

Continuing Care Retirement Glenridge on Palmer Ranch, 8.000% due 6/1/32(b)

 

2,276,220

 

2,000,000

 

Student Housing Revenue, Capital Projects Loan Program, Florida University, 7.850% due 8/15/31(b)

 

2,229,820

 

935,000

 

Century Parc Community Development District, Special Assessment, 7.000% due 11/1/31

 

767,008

 

1,000,000

 

Highlands County, FL, Health Facilities Authority Revenue, Adventist Health Systems, 6.000% due 11/15/25(b)

 

1,092,360

 

2,000,000

 

Martin County, FL, IDA Revenue, Indiantown Cogeneration Project, 7.875% due 12/15/25(a)

 

1,823,880

 

1,000,000

 

Orange County, FL, Health Facilities Authority Revenue, First Mortgage, GF, Orlando Inc. Project, 9.000% due 7/1/31

 

1,018,310

 

345,000

 

Palm Beach County, FL, Health Facilities Authority Revenue, John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital Inc. Project, 9.500% due 8/1/13(d)

 

402,322

 

2,000,000

 

Reunion East Community Development District, Special Assessment, 7.375% due 5/1/33

 

1,846,560

 

1,000,000

 

Santa Rosa, FL, Bay Bridge Authority Revenue, 6.250% due 7/1/28

 

740,410

 

1,000,000

 

University of Central Florida, COP, FGIC, 5.000% due 10/1/25

 

850,260

 

 

 

Total Florida

 

15,170,597

 

 

 

Georgia — 4.9%

 

 

 

 

 

Atlanta, GA, Airport Revenue:

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

FGIC, 5.625% due 1/1/30(a)

 

857,630

 

1,000,000

 

FSA, 5.000% due 1/1/26

 

937,230

 

2,000,000

 

Atlanta, GA, Development Authority Educational Facilities Revenue, Science Park LLC Project, 5.000% due 7/1/32

 

1,672,600

 

2,500,000

 

Atlanta, GA, Tax Allocation, Atlantic Station Project, 7.900% due 12/1/24(b)

 

2,883,700

 

1,000,000

 

Gainesville & Hall County, GA, Development Authority Revenue, Senior Living Facilities, Lanier Village Estates, 7.250% due 11/15/29

 

947,500

 

 

 

Total Georgia

 

7,298,660

 

 

 

Illinois — 0.5%

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

Illinois Finance Authority Revenue, Refunding, Chicago Charter School Project, 5.000% due 12/1/26

 

727,170

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

8

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

FACE AMOUNT

 

SECURITY

 

VALUE

 

 

 

Indiana — 0.4%

 

 

 

 

 

County of St. Joseph, IN, EDR, Holy Cross Village Notre Dame Project:

 

 

 

$

285,000

 

6.000% due 5/15/26

 

$       219,584

 

550,000

 

6.000% due 5/15/38

 

386,166

 

 

 

Total Indiana

 

605,750

 

 

 

Kansas — 0.7%

 

 

 

1,150,000

 

Salina, KS, Hospital Revenue, Refunding & Improvement Salina Regional Health, 5.000% due 10/1/22

 

1,032,320

 

 

 

Kentucky — 0.9%

 

 

 

2,000,000

 

Louisville & Jefferson County, KY, Metro Government Health System Revenue, Norton Healthcare Inc., 5.250% due 10/1/36

 

1,379,540

 

 

 

Louisiana — 1.0%

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

Epps, LA, COP, 8.000% due 6/1/18

 

920,610

 

1,000,000

 

St. John Baptist Parish, LA, Revenue, Marathon Oil Corp., 5.125% due 6/1/37

 

623,940

 

 

 

Total Louisiana

 

1,544,550

 

 

 

Maryland — 1.1%

 

 

 

1,500,000

 

Maryland State Economic Development Corp. Revenue, Chesapeake Bay, 7.730% due 12/1/27(b)

 

1,609,560

 

 

 

Massachusetts — 4.0%

 

 

 

890,000

 

Boston, MA, Industrial Development Financing Authority Revenue, Roundhouse Hospitality LLC Project, 7.875% due 3/1/25(a)

 

745,989

 

3,000,000

 

Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority Education Loan Revenue, 6.125% due 1/1/22(a)

 

2,731,170

 

1,000,000

 

Massachusetts State DFA Revenue, Briarwood, 8.250% due 12/1/30(b)

 

1,123,150

 

1,000,000

 

Massachusetts State HEFA Revenue, Caritas Christi Obligation, 6.750% due 7/1/16

 

979,470

 

315,000

 

Massachusetts State Port Authority Revenue, 13.000% due 7/1/13(d)

 

397,017

 

 

 

Total Massachusetts

 

5,976,796

 

 

 

Michigan — 6.1%

 

 

 

2,130,000

 

Allen Academy, COP, 7.500% due 6/1/23

 

1,797,315

 

 

 

Cesar Chavez Academy, COP:

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

6.500% due 2/1/33

 

819,390

 

1,000,000

 

8.000% due 2/1/33

 

975,810

 

1,000,000

 

Gaudior Academy, COP, 7.250% due 4/1/34

 

807,030

 

1,750,000

 

Kalamazoo Advantage Academy, COP, 8.000% due 12/1/33†

 

875,000

 

3,000,000

 

Michigan State Hospital Finance Authority, Refunding Hospital, Sparrow Obligated, 5.000% due 11/15/31

 

2,322,420

 

990,000

 

Star International Academy, COP, 7.000% due 3/1/33

 

785,189

 

700,000

 

William C. Abney Academy, COP, 6.750% due 7/1/19

 

671,734

 

 

 

Total Michigan

 

9,053,888

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

9

 


 

Schedule of investments continued

October 31, 2008

 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

FACE AMOUNT

 

SECURITY

 

VALUE

 

 

 

Missouri — 0.7%

 

 

 

$

1,300,000

 

Missouri State HEFA Revenue, Refunding, St. Lukes Episcopal, 5.000% due 12/1/21

 

$    1,125,891

 

 

 

Montana — 1.4%

 

 

 

2,385,000

 

Montana State Board of Investment, Resource Recovery Revenue, Yellowstone Energy LP Project, 7.000% due 12/31/19(a)

 

2,101,447

 

 

 

New Hampshire — 0.9%

 

 

 

1,600,000

 

New Hampshire HEFA Revenue, Covenant Health System, 5.500% due 7/1/34

 

1,287,424

 

 

 

New Jersey — 10.4%

 

 

 

1,500,000

 

Casino Reinvestment Development Authority Revenue, MBIA, 5.250% due 6/1/20

 

1,418,820

 

1,000,000

 

New Jersey EDA, Retirement Community Revenue, SeaBrook Village Inc., 8.250% due 11/15/30(b)

 

1,114,460

 

 

 

New Jersey Health Care Facilities Financing Authority Revenue, Trinitas Hospital Obligation Group:

 

 

 

5,000,000

 

5.250% due 7/1/30

 

3,676,550

 

3,000,000

 

7.500% due 7/1/30(b)

 

3,268,890

 

5,000,000

 

New Jersey State, EDA, Revenue, Refunding, 6.875% due 1/1/37(a)

 

4,103,450

 

1,750,000

 

Tobacco Settlement Financing Corp., 6.750% due 6/1/39(b)

 

1,997,047

 

 

 

Total New Jersey

 

15,579,217

 

 

 

New Mexico — 1.3%

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

Otero County, NM, Jail Project Revenue, 7.500% due 12/1/24

 

951,660

 

1,000,000

 

Sandoval County, NM, Incentive Payment Revenue, Refunding, 5.000% due 6/1/20

 

988,720

 

 

 

Total New Mexico

 

1,940,380

 

 

 

New York — 5.8%

 

 

 

700,000

 

Brookhaven, NY, IDA Civic Facilities Revenue, Memorial Hospital Medical Center Inc., 8.250% due 11/15/30(b)

 

782,341

 

2,000,000

 

Metropolitan Transportation Authority of New York, AMBAC, 5.000% due 7/1/30

 

1,848,000

 

1,000,000

 

Monroe County, NY, IDA, Civic Facilities Revenue, Woodland Village Project, 8.550% due 11/15/32(b)

 

1,127,640

 

780,000

 

New York City, NY, IDA, Civic Facilities Revenue, Special Needs Facilities Pooled Program, 8.125% due 7/1/19(b)

 

841,659

 

 

 

New York State Dormitory Authority Revenue:

 

 

 

1,500,000

 

Mental Health Services Facilities Improvement, AMBAC, 5.000% due 2/15/35

 

1,315,635

 

2,500,000

 

New York University Hospitals Center, 5.000% due 7/1/26

 

1,819,475

 

875,000

 

Suffolk County, NY, IDA, Civic Facilities Revenue, Eastern Long Island Hospital Association, 7.750% due 1/1/22(b)

 

970,734

 

 

 

Total New York

 

8,705,484

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

10

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

FACE AMOUNT

 

SECURITY

 

VALUE

 

 

 

North Carolina — 0.6%

 

 

 

$

905,000

 

North Carolina Medical Care Community, Health Care Facilities Revenue, First Mortgage, DePaul Community Facilities Project, 7.625% due 11/1/29(b)

 

$       968,377

 

 

 

Ohio — 2.6%

 

 

 

1,500,000

 

Cuyahoga County, OH, Hospital Facilities Revenue, Canton Inc. Project, 7.500% due 1/1/30

 

1,471,755

 

1,500,000

 

Miami County, OH, Hospital Facilities Revenue, Refunding and Improvement Upper Valley Medical Center, 5.250% due 5/15/21

 

1,236,975

 

1,260,000

 

Riversouth Authority, OH, Revenue, Riversouth Area Redevelopment, 5.000% due 12/1/25

 

1,217,828

 

 

 

Total Ohio

 

3,926,558

 

 

 

Pennsylvania — 4.5%

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

Cumberland County, PA, Municipal Authority Retirement Community Revenue, Wesley Affiliate Services Inc. Project, 7.250% due 1/1/35(b)

 

1,159,190

 

1,000,000

 

Lebanon County, PA, Health Facilities Authority Revenue, Good Samaritan Hospital Project, 6.000% due 11/15/35

 

762,250

 

1,000,000

 

Monroe County, PA, Hospital Authority Revenue, Pocono Medical Center, 5.000% due 1/1/27

 

775,620

 

955,000

 

Northumberland County, PA, IDA Facilities Revenue, NHS Youth Services Inc. Project, 7.500% due 2/15/29

 

777,093

 

1,000,000

 

Philadelphia, PA, Authority for IDR, Host Marriot LP Project, Remarketed 10/31/95, 7.750% due 12/1/17(a)

 

1,000,000

 

2,000,000

 

Westmoreland County, PA, IDA Revenue, Health Care Facilities, Redstone Highlands Health, 8.125% due 11/15/30(b)

 

2,211,460

 

 

 

Total Pennsylvania

 

6,685,613

 

 

 

South Carolina — 0.1%

 

 

 

110,000

 

McCormick County, SC, COP, 9.750% due 7/1/09

 

110,505

 

 

 

Tennessee — 1.6%

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

Clarksville, TN, Natural Gas Acquisition Corp. Gas Revenue, 5.000% due 12/15/21

 

730,300

 

2,500,000

 

Shelby County, TN, Health Educational & Housing Facilities Board Revenue, Trezevant Manor Project, 5.750% due 9/1/37

 

1,659,125

 

 

 

Total Tennessee

 

2,389,425

 

 

 

Texas — 15.9%

 

 

 

540,000

 

Bexar County, TX, Housing Financial Corp., MFH Revenue, Continental Lady Ester, 6.875% due 6/1/29(b)

 

566,530

 

1,500,000

 

Brazos River, TX, Harbor Industrial Development Corp., Environmental Facilities Revenue, Dow Chemical Co., 5.900% due 5/1/38(a)(e)

 

1,181,970

 

2,000,000

 

Brazos River Authority Texas PCR, TXU Co., 8.250% due 5/1/33(a)*

 

1,516,260

 

1,500,000

 

Burnet County, TX, Public Facility Project Revenue, 7.500% due 8/1/24

 

1,290,900

 

 

 

Garza County, TX, Public Facility Corp.:

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

5.500% due 10/1/18

 

906,660

 

2,000,000

 

Project Revenue, 5.750% due 10/1/25

 

1,681,060

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

11

 


 

Schedule of investments continued

October 31, 2008

 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

FACE AMOUNT

 

SECURITY

 

VALUE

 

 

 

Texas — 15.9% continued

 

 

 

$

2,000,000

 

Gulf Coast of Texas, IDA, Solid Waste Disposal Revenue, CITGO Petroleum Corp. Project, 7.500% due 10/1/12(a)(e)

 

$    1,977,940

 

2,000,000

 

Harris County, TX, Cultural Education Facilities Finance Corp., Medical Facilities Revenue, Baylor College of Medicine, 5.625% due 11/15/32

 

1,797,700

 

2,750,000

 

Houston, TX, Airport Systems Revenue, Special Facilities, Continental Airlines Inc. Project, 6.125% due 7/15/27(a)

 

1,595,000

 

1,000,000

 

Laredo, TX, ISD Public Facility Corp. Lease Revenue, AMBAC, 5.000% due 8/1/29

 

947,990

 

1,000,000

 

Midlothian, TX, Development Authority, Tax Increment Contract Revenue, 6.200% due 11/15/29

 

828,230

 

1,000,000

 

North Texas Tollway Authority, Dallas North Tollway Systems Revenue, FSA, 5.000% due 1/1/35(b)

 

1,052,920

 

2,500,000

 

North Texas Tollway Authority Revenue, 5.750% due 1/1/40

 

2,278,400

 

1,500,000

 

Texas State Public Finance Authority, Uplift Education, 5.750% due 12/1/27

 

1,191,015

 

1,865,000

 

West Texas Detention Facility Corp. Revenue, 8.000% due 2/1/25

 

1,593,102

 

 

 

Willacy County, TX:

 

 

 

2,000,000

 

Local Government Corp. Revenue, 6.875% due 9/1/28

 

1,499,240

 

 

 

PFC Project Revenue:

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

8.250% due 12/1/23

 

883,030

 

1,000,000

 

County Jail, 7.500% due 11/1/25

 

905,960

 

 

 

Total Texas

 

23,693,907

 

 

 

Virginia — 2.9%

 

 

 

405,000

 

Alexandria, VA, Redevelopment & Housing Authority, MFH Revenue, Parkwood Court Apartments Project, 8.125% due 4/1/30

 

361,086

 

1,000,000

 

Broad Street CDA Revenue, 7.500% due 6/1/33

 

926,390

 

2,500,000

 

Chesterfield County, VA, EDA, Solid Waste and Sewer Disposal Revenue, Virginia Electric Power Co. Project, 5.600% due 11/1/31(a)

 

2,000,775

 

1,000,000

 

Fairfax County, VA, EDA Revenue, Retirement Community, Greenspring Village Inc., 7.500% due 10/1/29(b)

 

1,071,570

 

 

 

Total Virginia

 

4,359,821

 

 

 

West Virginia — 1.2%

 

 

 

2,500,000

 

Pleasants County, WV, PCR, Refunding County Commission Allegheny, 5.250% due 10/15/37

 

1,765,300

 

 

 

Wisconsin — 0.6%

 

 

 

1,000,000

 

Wisconsin State HEFA Revenue, Aurora Health Care, 6.400% due 4/15/33

 

920,350

 



 

TOTAL INVESTMENTS BEFORE SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost — $160,189,995)

 

143,820,750

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

12

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

FACE AMOUNT

 

SECURITY

 

VALUE

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 1.4%

 

 

 

 

 

Colorado — 0.3%

 

 

 

$

400,000

 

Colorado Educational & Cultural Facilities Authority Revenue, National Jewish Federation Bond Program, LOC-Bank of America N.A., 1.250%, 11/3/08(f)

 

$      400,000

 

 

 

Massachusetts — 0.2%

 

 

 

300,000

 

Massachusetts State, GO, Central Artery, SPA-Landesbank Baden-Wuerttemburg, 1.150%, 11/3/08(f)

 

300,000

 

 

 

New York — 0.2%

 

 

 

300,000

 

New York City, NY, MFA Water & Sewer System Revenue, Second General Resolution, Fiscal 2008, SPA-Fortis Bank SA, 1.200%, 11/3/08(f)

 

300,000

 

 

 

Pennsylvania — 0.3%

 

 

 

400,000

 

Langhorne Manor Boro, PA, Higher Education & Health Authority Retirement, Wesley Enhanced Living, Radian, LOC-Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania, 3.400%, 11/3/08(f)

 

400,000

 

 

 

Utah — 0.1%

 

 

 

200,000

 

Murray City, UT, Hospital Revenue, IHC Health Services Inc., SPA-JPMorgan Chase, 1.250%, 11/3/08(f)

 

200,000

 

 

 

West Virginia — 0.3%

 

 

 

400,000

 

West Virginia State Hospital Finance Authority Revenue, United Hospital Center Inc., LOC-JPMorgan Chase, 1.250%, 11/3/08(f)

 

400,000

 

 

 

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost — $2,000,000)

 

2,000,000

 

 

 

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 97.6% (Cost — $162,189,995#)

 

145,820,750

 

 

 

Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities — 2.4%

 

3,631,398

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0%

 

$149,452,148

 

 

Security is currently in default.

*

Security is exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. This security may be resold in transactions that are exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. This security has been deemed liquid pursuant to guidelines approved by the Board of Directors, unless otherwise noted.

(a)

Income from this issue is considered a preference item for purposes of calculating the alternative minimum tax (“AMT”).

(b)

Pre-Refunded bonds are escrowed with U.S. government obligations and/or U.S. government agency securities and are considered by the manager to be triple-A rated even if issuer has not applied for new ratings.

(c)

All or a portion of this security is held at the broker as collateral for open futures contracts.

(d)

Bonds are escrowed to maturity by government securities and/or U.S. government agency securities and are considered by the manager to be triple-A rated even if issuer has not applied for new ratings.

(e)

Variable rate security. Interest rate disclosed is that which is in effect at October 31, 2008.

(f)

Variable rate demand obligations have a demand feature under which the Fund can tender them back to the issuer on no more than 7 days notice. Date shown is the date of the next interest rate change.

#

Aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes is $162,142,724.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

13

 


 

Schedule of investments continued

October 31, 2008

 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

Abbreviations used in this schedule:

AMBAC

— Ambac Assurance Corporation — Insured Bonds

CDA

— Community Development Authority

COP

— Certificate of Participation

DFA

— Development Finance Agency

EDA

— Economic Development Authority

EDR

— Economic Development Revenue

FGIC

— Financial Guaranty Insurance Company — Insured Bonds

FSA

— Financial Security Assurance — Insured Bonds

GO

— General Obligation

HEFA

— Health & Educational Facilities Authority

IDA

— Industrial Development Authority

IDR

— Industrial Development Revenue

ISD

— Independent School District

LOC

— Letter of Credit

MBIA

— Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation — Insured Bonds

MFA

— Municipal Finance Authority

MFH

— Multi-Family Housing

PCR

— Pollution Control Revenue

PFC

— Public Facilities Corporation

Radian

— Radian Asset Assurance

SPA

— Standby Bond Purchase Agreement — Insured Bonds

 

Summary of Investments by Industry* (unaudited)

 

Pre-Refunded/Escrowed to Maturity

 

25.4

%

Hospitals

 

18.8

 

Leasing

 

13.3

 

Industrial Development

 

11.5

 

Education

 

6.5

 

Special Tax

 

5.6

 

Transportation

 

4.6

 

Resource Recovery

 

4.2

 

Electric

 

3.5

 

Other Revenue

 

2.4

 

Local General Obligation

 

2.3

 

Housing

 

1.5

 

General Obligation

 

0.2

 

Water & Sewer

 

0.2

 

 

 

100.0

%

 

*  As a percentage of total investments. Please note that Fund holdings are as of October 31, 2008 and are subject to change.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

14

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

Ratings Table† (October 31, 2008) (unaudited)

 

S&P/Moody’s/Fitch

 

 

 

AAA/Aaa

 

15.1

%

AA/ Aa

 

8.3

 

A

 

18.4

 

BBB/Baa

 

16.5

 

BB/Ba

 

2.8

 

B

 

1.6

 

CCC/Caa

 

1.0

 

A-1/VMIG1

 

1.4

 

NR

 

34.9

 

 

 

100.0

%

 

As a percentage of total investments.

S&P primary rating; Moody’s secondary, then Fitch.

 

See pages 16 and 17 for definitions of ratings.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

15

 


 

Bond ratings (unaudited)

 

The definitions of the applicable rating symbols are set forth below:

 

Standard & Poor’s Ratings Service (“Standard & Poor’s”) — Ratings from “AA” to “CCC” may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standings within the major rating categories.

 

AAA

Bonds rated “AAA” have the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor’s. Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.

AA

Bonds rated “AA” have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal and differ from the highest rated issues only in a small degree.

A

Bonds rated “A” have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.

BBB

Bonds rated “BBB” are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for bonds in this category than in higher rated categories.

BB, B, CCC, CC and C

Bonds rated “BB”, “B”, “CCC”, “CC” and “C” are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. “BB” represents the lowest degree of speculation and “C” the highest degree of speculation. While such bonds will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.

D

Bonds rated “D” are in default and payment of interest and/or repayment of principal is in arrears.

 

 

 

Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”) — Numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 may be applied to each generic rating from “Aa” to “Caa,” where 1 is the highest and 3 the lowest ranking within its generic category.

 

 

 

Aaa

Bonds rated “Aaa” are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as “gilt edge.” Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes can be visualized as most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.

Aa

Bonds rated “Aa” are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with the “Aaa” group they comprise what are generally known as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in “Aaa” securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in “Aaa” securities.

A

Bonds rated “A” possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment some time in the future.

Baa

Bonds rated “Baa” are considered as medium grade obligations, i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well.

Ba

Bonds rated “Ba” are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and therefore not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.

 

16

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

B

Bonds rated “B” generally lack characteristics of desirable investments. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.

Caa

Bonds rated “Caa” are of poor standing. These may be in default, or present elements of danger may exist with respect to principal or interest.

Ca

Bonds rated “Ca” represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked short-comings.

C

Bonds rated “C” are the lowest class of bonds and issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real investment standing.

 

 

 

Fitch Ratings Service (“Fitch”) — Ratings from “AA” to “CCC” may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standings within the major rating categories.

 

 

 

AAA

Bonds rated “AAA” have the highest rating assigned by Fitch. Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.

AA

Bonds rated “AA” have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal and differ from the highest rated issues only in a small degree.

A

Bonds rated “A” have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.

BBB

Bonds rated “BBB” are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for bonds in this category than in higher rated categories.

BB, B, CCC
and CC

Bonds rated “BB”, “B”, “CCC” and “CC” are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. “BB” represents a lower degree of speculation than “B”, and “CC” the highest degree of speculation. While such bonds will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.

NR

Indicates that the bond is not rated by Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s or Fitch.

 

 

 

Short-Term Security Ratings (unaudited)

 

 

 

SP-1

Standard & Poor’s highest rating indicating very strong or strong capacity to pay principal and interest; those issues determined to possess overwhelming safety characteristics are denoted with a plus (+) sign.

A-1

Standard & Poor’s highest commercial paper and variable-rate demand obligation (VRDO) rating indicating that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is either overwhelming or very strong; those issues determined to possess overwhelming safety characteristics are denoted with a plus (+) sign.

VMIG 1

Moody’s highest rating for issues having a demand feature — VRDO.

MIG1

Moody’s highest rating for short-term municipal obligations.

P-1

Moody’s highest rating for commercial paper and for VRDO prior to the advent of the VMIG 1 rating.

F1

Fitch’s highest rating indicating the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; those issues determined to possess overwhelming strong credit feature are denoted with a plus (+) sign.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

17

 


 

Statement of assets and liabilities

October 31, 2008

 

ASSETS:

 

 

 

Investments, at value (Cost — $162,189,995)

 

$

145,820,750

 

Cash

 

82,497

 

Interest receivable

 

3,510,037

 

Receivable from broker — variation margin on open futures contracts

 

255,313

 

Receivable for securities sold

 

75,000

 

Prepaid expenses

 

10,628

 

Total Assets

 

149,754,225

 

LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

Distributions payable

 

86,049

 

Investment management fee payable

 

70,791

 

Directors’ fees payable

 

10,098

 

Accrued expenses

 

135,139

 

Total Liabilities

 

302,077

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS

 

$

149,452,148

 

NET ASSETS:

 

 

 

Par value ($0.01 par value; 21,119,261 shares issued and outstanding; 500,000,000 shares authorized)

 

$

211,193

 

Paid-in capital in excess of par value

 

191,771,682

 

Undistributed net investment income

 

1,079,803

 

Accumulated net realized loss on investments and futures contracts

 

(28,192,234

)

Net unrealized depreciation on investments and futures contracts

 

(15,418,296

)

TOTAL NET ASSETS

 

$

149,452,148

 

Shares Outstanding

 

21,119,261

 

Net Asset Value

 

$7.08

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

18

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

Statement of operations

For the Year Ended October 31, 2008

 

INVESTMENT INCOME:

 

 

 

Interest

 

$  10,491,198

 

EXPENSES:

 

 

 

Investment management fee (Note 2)

 

916,755

 

Legal fees

 

68,727

 

Shareholder reports

 

52,150

 

Audit and tax

 

42,993

 

Directors’ fees

 

36,828

 

Transfer agent fees

 

25,991

 

Stock exchange listing fees

 

17,372

 

Insurance

 

4,543

 

Custody fees

 

2,453

 

Miscellaneous expenses

 

8,299

 

Total Expenses

 

1,176,111

 

NET INVESTMENT INCOME

 

9,315,087

 

REALIZED AND UNREALIZED LOSS ON INVESTMENTS AND FUTURES CONTRACTS
(NOTES 1 AND 3):

 

 

 

Net Realized Loss From:

 

 

 

Investment transactions

 

(2,088,435

)

Futures contracts

 

(1,633,301

)

Net Realized Loss

 

(3,721,736

)

Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation From:

 

 

 

Investments

 

(21,905,511

)

Futures contracts

 

1,003,307

 

Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation

 

(20,902,204

)

NET LOSS ON INVESTMENTS AND FUTURES CONTRACTS

 

(24,623,940

)

DECREASE IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS

 

$(15,308,853

)

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

19

 


 

Statements of changes in net assets

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED OCTOBER 31,

 

2008

 

2007

 

OPERATIONS:

 

 

 

 

 

Net investment income

 

$     9,315,087

 

$     8,886,879

 

Net realized loss

 

(3,721,736

)

(2,114,027

)

Change in net unrealized appreciation/depreciation

 

(20,902,204

)

1,916,920

 

Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets From Operations

 

(15,308,853

)

8,689,772

 

DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM (NOTE 1):

 

 

 

 

 

Net investment income

 

(8,918,253

)

(8,583,722

)

Decrease in Net Assets From Distributions to Shareholders

 

(8,918,253

)

(8,583,722

)

FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

 

 

 

 

 

Reinvestment of distributions (56,336 and 60,724 shares issued, respectively)

 

436,238

 

489,895

 

Increase in Net Assets From Fund Share Transactions

 

436,238

 

489,895

 

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS

 

(23,790,868

)

595,945

 

NET ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

173,243,016

 

172,647,071

 

End of year*

 

$ 149,452,148

 

$ 173,243,016

 

* Includes undistributed net investment income of:

 

$ 1,079,803

 

$698,101

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

20

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

 


 

Financial highlights

 

FOR A SHARE OF CAPITAL STOCK OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT EACH YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31:

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

2005

 

2004

 

NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF YEAR

 

$8.23

 

$8.22

 

$7.95

 

$7.84

 

$7.92

 

INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net investment income

 

0.44

 

0.42

 

0.42

 

0.45

 

0.51

 

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

 

(1.17

)

 

0.26

 

0.11

 

(0.05

)

Total income (loss) from operations

 

(0.73

)

0.42

 

0.68

 

0.56

 

0.46

 

LESS DISTRIBUTIONS FROM:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net investment income

 

(0.42

)

(0.41

)

(0.41

)

(0.45

)

(0.53

)

Return of capital

 

 

 

 

 

(0.01

)

Total distributions

 

(0.42

)

(0.41

)

(0.41

)

(0.45

)

(0.54

)

NET ASSET VALUE, END OF YEAR

 

$7.08

 

$8.23

 

$8.22

 

$7.95

 

$7.84

 

MARKET PRICE, END OF YEAR

 

$6.53

 

$7.75

 

$7.84

 

$7.10

 

$7.39

 

Total return, based on NAV1,2

 

(9.02

)%

5.40

%

9.24

%

7.82

%3

6.32

%

Total return, based on Market Price2

 

(10.89

)%

4.06

%

16.66

%

2.16

%

3.76

%

NET ASSETS, END OF YEAR (MILLIONS)

 

$149

 

$173

 

$173

 

$167

 

$165

 

RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross expenses

 

0.71

%

0.84

%4

0.79

%

0.85

%

0.80

%

Net expenses

 

0.71

 

0.79

4,5

0.79

5

0.85

 

0.80

 

Net investment income

 

5.59

 

5.14

 

5.27

 

5.74

 

6.47

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE

 

17

%

16

%

18

%

39

%

33

%

 

1

Performance figures may reflect fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. In the absence of fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, the total return would have been lower. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

2

The total return calculation assumes that distributions are reinvested in accordance with the Fund’s dividend reinvestment plan. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

3

The prior investment manager fully reimbursed the Fund for losses incurred resulting from an investment transaction error. Without this reimbursement, total return would not have changed.

4

Included in the expense ratios are certain non-recurring restructuring (and reorganization, if applicable) fees that were incurred by the Fund during the period. Without these fees, the gross and net expense ratios would both have been 0.73%.

5

Reflects fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

21

 


 

Notes to financial statements

 

1. Organization and significant accounting policies

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. (the “Fund”) was incorporated in Maryland and is registered as a diversified, closed-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). The Fund seeks high current income exempt from federal income taxes.

 

The following are significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund and are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Estimates and assumptions are required to be made regarding assets, liabilities and changes in net assets resulting from operations when financial statements are prepared. Changes in the economic environment, financial markets and any other parameters used in determining these estimates could cause actual results to differ.

 

(a) Investment valuation. Securities are valued at the mean between the last quoted bid and asked prices provided by an independent pricing service that are based on transactions in municipal obligations, quotations from municipal bond dealers, market transactions in comparable securities and various other relationships between securities. When prices are not readily available, or are determined not to reflect fair value, the Fund may value these securities at fair value as determined in accordance with the procedures approved by the Fund’s Board of Directors. Short-term obligations with maturities of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.

 

(b) Financial futures contracts. The Fund may enter into financial futures contracts typically to hedge a portion of the portfolio. Upon entering into a financial futures contract, the Fund is required to deposit cash or securities as initial margin, equal in value to a certain percentage of the contract amount (initial margin deposit). Additional securities are also segregated up to the current market value of the financial futures contracts. Subsequent payments, known as “variation margin,” are made or received by the Fund each day, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the underlying financial instruments. When the financial futures contracts are closed, a realized gain or loss is recognized equal to the difference between the proceeds from (or cost of) the closing transactions and the Fund’s basis in the contracts.

 

The risks associated with entering into financial futures contracts include the possibility that a change in the value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in the value of the underlying financial instruments. In addition, investing in financial futures contracts involves the risk that the Fund could lose more than the initial margin deposit and subsequent payments required for a futures transaction. Risks may also arise upon entering into these contracts from the potential inability of the counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts.

 

22

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

(c) Credit and market risk. The Fund invests in high yield instruments that are subject to certain credit and market risks. The yields of high yield obligations reflect, among other things, perceived credit and market risks. The Fund’s investment in securities rated below investment grade typically involves risks not associated with higher rated securities including, among others, greater risk related to timely and ultimate payment of interest and principal, greater market price volatility and less liquid secondary market trading.

 

(d) Security transactions and investment income. Security transactions are accounted for on a trade date basis. Interest income, adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method. To the extent any issuer defaults on an expected interest payment, the Fund’s policy is to generally halt any additional interest income accruals and consider the realizability of interest accrued up to the date of default.

 

(e) Distributions to shareholders. Distributions from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid on a monthly basis. The Fund intends to satisfy conditions that will enable interest from municipal securities, which is exempt from federal and certain state income taxes, to retain such tax-exempt status when distributed to the shareholders of the Fund. Distributions of net realized gains, if any, are taxable and are declared at least annually. Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

(f) Federal and other taxes. It is the Fund’s policy to comply with the federal income and excise tax requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Accordingly, the Fund intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income and net realized gains, if any, to shareholders each year. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required in the Fund’s financial statements.

 

Management has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that as of October 31, 2008, no provision for income tax would be required in the Fund’s financial statements. The Fund’s federal and state income and federal excise tax returns for tax years for which the applicable statutes of limitations have not expired are subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state departments of revenue.

 

(g) Reclassification. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset values per

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

23

 


 

Notes to financial statements continued

 

share. During the current year, the following reclassifications have been made:

 

 

 

Undistributed net investment income

 

Accumulated net realized loss

 

Paid-in capital

 

(a)

 

 

$747,959

 

$(747,959)

 

(b)

 

$(15,132)

 

15,132

 

 

 

(a)  Reclassifications are primarily due to the expiration of a capital loss carryover.

(b)  Reclassifications are primarily due to differences between book and tax accretion of market discount on fixed income securities.

 

2. Investment management agreement and other transactions with affiliates

 

Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (“LMPFA”) is the Fund’s investment manager and Western Asset Management Company (“Western Asset”) is the Fund’s subadviser. LMPFA and Western Asset are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”).

 

LMPFA provides administrative and certain oversight services to the Fund. The Fund pays LMPFA an investment management fee, calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.55% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.

 

LMPFA has delegated to Western Asset the day-to-day portfolio management of the Fund. For its services, LMPFA pays Western Asset 70% of the net management fee it receives from the Fund.

 

Certain officers and one Director of the Fund are employees of Legg Mason or its affiliates and do not receive compensation from the Fund.

 

3. Investments

 

During the year ended October 31, 2008, the aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales of investments (excluding short-term investments) were as follows:

 

Purchases

 

$32,802,438

 

Sales

 

27,553,406

 

 

At October 31, 2008, the aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments for federal income tax purposes were as follows:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

 

   4,120,484

 

Gross unrealized depreciation

 

(20,442,458

)

Net unrealized depreciation

 

$ (16,321,974

)

 

At October 31, 2008, the Fund had the following open futures contracts:

 

 

 

NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS

 

EXPIRATION
DATE

 

BASIS
VALUE

 

MARKET
VALUE

 

UNREALIZED
GAIN

 

Contracts to Sell:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. Treasury 30-Year Bonds

 

215

 

12/08

 

$25,272,824

 

$24,321,875

 

$950,949

 

 

24

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

4. Distributions subsequent to October 31, 2008

 

On August 14, 2008, the Board of Directors (“Board”) of the Fund declared a dividend distribution in the amount of $0.037 per share payable on November 28, 2008 to shareholders of record on November 21, 2008.

 

On November 17, 2008, the Board of Directors of the Fund declared three dividend distributions, each in the amount of $0.0370 per share, payable on December 26, 2008, January 30, 2009 and February 27, 2009 to shareholders of record on December 19, 2008, January 23, 2009 and February 20, 2009, respectively.

 

5. Income tax information and distributions to shareholders

 

The tax character of distributions paid during the fiscal years ended October 31, were as follows:

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

Distribution Paid From:

 

 

 

 

 

Tax-exempt income

 

$8,918,253

 

$8,583,722

 

 

As of October 31, 2008, the components of accumulated earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed tax-exempt income — net

 

$    1,103,292

 

Capital loss carryforward*

 

(27,288,556

)

Other book/tax temporary differences(a)

 

(974,438

)

Unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)(b)

 

(15,371,025

)

Total accumulated earnings/(losses) — net

 

$ (42,530,727

)

 

*      The Fund had the following net capital loss carryforward remaining:

 

Year of Expiration

 

Amount

 

10/31/2009

 

$

(733,106

)

10/31/2010

 

(601,572

)

10/31/2011

 

(5,066,581

)

10/31/2012

 

(10,608,178

)

10/31/2013

 

(5,677,661

)

10/31/2015

 

(1,928,255

)

10/31/2016

 

(2,673,203

)

 

 

$

(27,288,556

)

 

These amounts will be available to offset any future taxable capital gains.

 

(a)  Other book/tax temporary differences are attributable primarily to the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on certain futures contracts and book/tax differences in the timing of the deductibility of various expenses.

(b)  The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) is attributable primarily to the difference between book & tax accretion methods for market discount on fixed income securities.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

25

 


 

Notes to financial statements continued

 

6. Recent accounting pronouncements

 

On September 20, 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) released Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 establishes an authoritative definition of fair value, sets out a framework for measuring fair value, and requires additional disclosures about fair value measurements. The application of FAS 157 is required for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Management has determined that there is no material impact to the Fund’s valuation policies as a result of adopting FAS 157. The Fund will implement the disclosure requirements beginning with its January 31, 2009 Form N-Q.

 

* * *

 

In March 2008, FASB issued the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. FAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures about the Fund’s derivative and hedging activities, including how such activities are accounted for and their effect on the Fund’s financial position, performance and cash flows. Management is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of FAS 161 will have on the Fund’s financial statements and related disclosures.

 

* * *

 

During September 2008, FASB Staff Position FAS 133-1 and FASB Interpretation 45-4, Disclosures about Credit Derivatives and Certain Guarantees: An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 and FASB Interpretation No. 45; and Clarification of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 161 (“Amendment”) was issued and is effective for annual and interim reporting periods ending after November 15, 2008. The Amendment requires enhanced disclosures regarding credit derivatives and hybrid financial instruments containing embedded credit derivatives. Management is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of the Amendment will have on the Fund’s financial statement disclosures.

 

26

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 


 

Report of independent registered public accounting firm

 

The Board of Directors and Shareholders
Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.:

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. as of October 31, 2008, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the years in the two-year period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then ended. These financial statements and financial highlights are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial highlights based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2008, by correspondence with the custodian. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements and financial highlights referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. as of October 31, 2008, and the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the years in the two-year period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

 

New York, New York
December 22, 2008

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. 2008 Annual Report

 

27

 


 

Additional information (unaudited)

Information about Directors and Officers

 

The business and affairs of Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. (“Fund”) are managed under the direction of the Board of Directors. Information pertaining to the Directors and Officers of the Fund is set forth below.

 

NON-INTERESTED DIRECTORS:

CAROL L. COLMAN
c/o Chairman of the Fund, Legg Mason & Co., LLC, (“Legg Mason”)
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

Birth year

 

1946

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director and Member of the Nominating and Audit Committees, Class I

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

President, Colman Consulting Co.

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

23

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

None

 

 

 

DANIEL P. CRONIN
c/o Chairman of the Fund, Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

 

 

Birth year

 

1946

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director and Member of the Nominating and Audit Committees, Class II

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Retired; Formerly, Associate General Counsel, Pfizer Inc. (prior to and including 2004)

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

23

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

None

 

28

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 


 

PAOLO M. CUCCHI
c/o Chairman of the Fund, Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

Birth year

 

1941

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director and Member of the Nominating and Audit Committees, Class II

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Professor of Italian and French languages, Drew University (since 1984); Formerly, Vice President and Dean of College of Liberal Arts at Drew University (from 1984 to 2008)

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

23

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

None

 

 

 

LESLIE H. GELB
c/o Chairman of the Fund, Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

 

 

Birth year

 

1937

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director and Member of the Nominating and Audit Committees, Class II

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

President Emeritus and Senior Board Fellow, The Council on Foreign Relations (since 2003); Formerly, President, The Council on Foreign Relations; Formerly, Columnist, Deputy Editorial Page Editor and Editor, Op-Ed Page, The New York Times

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

23

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

Director of two registered investment companies advised by Blackstone Asia Advisors LLC: India Fund, Inc. and Asia Tigers Fund, Inc.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

29

 


 

Additional information (unaudited) continued

Information about Directors and Officers

 

WILLIAM R. HUTCHINSON
c/o Chairman of the Fund, Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

Birth year

 

1942

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director and Member of the Nominating and Audit Committees, Class III

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

President, W.R. Hutchinson & Associates Inc. (since 2001)

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

23

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

Director of Associated Banc-Corp.

 

 

 

RIORDAN ROETT
c/o Chairman of the Fund, Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

Birth year

 

1938

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director and Member of the Nominating and Audit Committees, Class I

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

The Sarita and Don Johnston Professor of Political Science and Director of Western Hemisphere Studies, Paul H. Nitze School of Avanced International Studies, The Johns Hopkins University (since 1993)

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

23

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

None

 

30

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 


 

JESWALD W. SALACUSE
c/o Chairman of the Fund, Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

Birth year

 

1938

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director and Member of the Nominating and Audit Committees, Class III

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Henry J. Braker Professor of Commercial Law, The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University (since 1986); President, Arbitration Tribunal, World Bank/ICSID (since 2004)

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

23

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

Director of two registered investment companies advised by Blackstone Advisors

 

INTERESTED DIRECTOR:

R. JAY GERKEN, CFA2
Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

Birth year

 

1951

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Director, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Class I

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2002

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Managing Director, Legg Mason; Chairman of the Board and Trustee/Director of 163 funds associated with Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC. (“LMPFA”) and its affiliates; President of LMPFA (since 2006); Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason; Formerly, Chairman, Smith Barney Fund Management LLC (“SBFM”) and Citi Fund Management, Inc. (“CFM”) (2002 to 2005); Formerly, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Travelers Investment Advisers Inc. (2002 to 2005)

Number of portfolios in
fund complex overseen
by director (including
the Fund)

 

148

Other board memberships
held by Director

 

None

 

OFFICERS:

KAPREL OZSOLAK
Legg Mason
55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041

 

Birth year

 

1965

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2004

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Director of Legg Mason; Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of certain funds associated with Legg Mason; Formerly, Controller of certain funds associated with certain predecessor firms of Legg Mason (from 2002 to 2004)

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

31

 


 

Additional information (unaudited) continued

Information about Directors and Officers

 

TED P. BECKER
Legg Mason
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018

 

 

 

Birth year

 

1951

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Chief Compliance Officer

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2006

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Director of Global Compliance at Legg Mason (since 2006); Chief Compliance Officer of LMPFA (since 2006); Managing Director of Compliance at Legg Mason, (since 2005); Chief Compliance Officer with certain mutual funds associated with Legg Mason, LMPFA and certain affiliates (since 2006); Formerly, Managing Director of Compliance at Citigroup Asset Management (“CAM”) or its predecessors (from 2002 to 2005)

 

ROBERT I. FRENKEL
Legg Mason
100 First Stamford Place, Stamford, CT 06902

 

 

 

Birth year

 

1954

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Secretary and Chief Legal Officer

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2003

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Managing Director and General Counsel of Global Mutual Funds for Legg Mason and its predecessor (since 1994); Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of mutual funds associated with Legg Mason (since 2003); Formerly, Secretary of CFM (from 2001 to 2004)

 

THOMAS C. MANDIA
Legg Mason
100 First Stamford Place, Stamford, CT 06902

 

 

 

Birth year

 

1962

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Assistant Secretary

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2006

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Managing Director and Deputy General Counsel of Legg Mason (since 2005); Managing Director and Deputy General Counsel for CAM (from 1992 to 2005)

 

32

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 


 

ALBERT LASKAJ
Legg Mason
55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041

 

Birth year

 

1977

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Controller

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2007

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Vice President of Legg Mason (since 2008); Controller of certain funds associated with Legg Mason (since 2007); Formerly, Assistant Controller of certain funds associated with Legg Mason (from 2005 to 2007); Formerly, Accounting Manager of certain funds associated with certain predecessor firms of Legg Mason (from 2003 to 2005)

 

 

 

STEVEN FRANK
Legg Mason
55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041

 

Birth year

 

1967

Position(s) held
with Fund
1

 

Controller

Term of office1 and
length of time served

 

Since 2005

Principal
occupation(s) during
past 5 years

 

Vice President of Legg Mason (since 2002); Controller of certain funds associated with Legg Mason or its predecessors (since 2005); Formerly, Assistant Controller of certain funds associated with Legg Mason predecessors (from 2001 to 2005)

 

1

The Fund’s Board of Directors is divided into three classes: Class I, Class II and Class III. The terms of office of the Class I, II and III Directors expire at the Annual Meetings of Stockholders in the year 2009, year 2010 and year 2010, respectively, or thereafter in each case when their respective successors are duly elected and qualified. The Fund’s executive officers are chosen each year at the first meeting of the Fund’s Board of Directors following the Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to hold office until the meeting of the Board following the next Annual Meeting of Stockholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified.

2

Mr. Gerken is an “interested person” of the Fund as defined in the 1940 Act, because Mr. Gerken is an officer of LMPFA and certain of its affiliates.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

33

 


 

Annual chief executive officer and chief financial officer certifications (unaudited)

 

The Fund’s CEO has submitted to the NYSE the required annual certification, and the Fund also has included the Certifications of the Fund’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in the Fund’s Form N-CSR filed with the SEC, for the period of this report.

 

34

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 


 

Dividend reinvestment plan (unaudited)

 

The Fund’s policy, which may be changed by the Fund’s Board of Directors, is generally to make monthly distributions of substantially all its net investment income (i.e., income other than net realized capital gains) to the holders of the Fund’s capital shares. From time to time, when the Fund makes a substantial capital gains distribution, it may do so in lieu of paying its regular monthly dividend. Net income of the Fund consists of all income accrued on portfolio assets less all expenses of the Fund. Expenses of the Fund are accrued each day. Net realized capital gains, if any, will be distributed to shareholders at least once a year.

 

Under the Fund’s Dividend Reinvestment Plan (“Plan”), a shareholder whose capital shares are registered in his or her own name will have all distributions reinvested automatically by American Stock Transfer & Trust Company (“AST”), as purchasing agent under the Plan, unless the shareholder elects to receive cash. Distributions with respect to shares registered in the name of a broker-dealer or other nominee (that is, in “street name”) will be reinvested by the broker or nominee in additional capital shares under the Plan, unless the service is not provided by the broker or nominee or the shareholder elects to receive distributions in cash. Investors who own capital shares registered in street name should consult their broker-dealers for details regarding reinvestment. All distributions to shareholders who do not participate in the Plan will be paid by check mailed directly to the record holder by or under the direction of AST, as dividend-paying agent.

 

The number of capital shares distributed to participants in the Plan in lieu of a cash dividend is determined in the following manner. Whenever the market price of the capital shares is equal to or exceeds 98% of net asset value (“NAV”) per share on the determination date (generally, the record date for the distribution), participants will be issued capital shares valued at the greater of (1) 98% of the NAV or (2) 95% of the market price. To the extent that the Fund issues shares to participants in the Plan at a discount to NAV, the interests of remaining shareholders (i.e., those who do not participate in the Plan) in the Fund’s net assets will be proportionately diluted.

 

If 98% of the NAV per share of the capital shares at the time of valuation (which is the close of business on the determination date) exceeds the market price of capital shares, AST will buy capital shares in the open market, on the NYSE or elsewhere, for the participants’ accounts. If, following the commencement of the purchases and before AST has completed its purchases, the market price exceeds 98% of what the NAV per share of the capital shares was at the valuation time, AST will attempt to terminate purchases in the open market and cause the Fund to issue the remaining portion of the dividend or distribution by issuing shares at a price equal to the greater of (1) 98% of the NAV per share as of the valuation time, or (2) 95% of the then current market price. In this case, the number of shares of capital shares received by a Plan participant will be based on the weighted average of prices paid for shares purchased in the open market and the price at which the Fund issues the remaining shares. To the

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

35

 


 

Dividend reinvestment plan (unaudited) continued

 

extent AST is unable to stop open market purchases and cause the Fund to issue the remaining shares, the average per share price paid by AST may exceed 98% of the NAV per share of the capital shares. AST will begin to purchase capital shares on the open market as soon as practicable after the payment date of the dividend or capital gains distribution, but in no event shall such purchases continue later than 30 days after that date, except when necessary to comply with applicable provisions of the Federal securities laws.

 

AST maintains all shareholder accounts in the Plan and furnishes written confirmations of all transactions in each account, including information needed by a shareholder for personal and tax records. The automatic reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions will not relieve Plan participants of any income tax that may be payable on the dividends or capital gains distributions. Capital shares in the account of each Plan participant will be held by AST in uncertificated form in the name of the Plan participant.

 

Plan participants are subject to no charge for reinvesting dividends and capital gains distributions under the Plan. AST’s fees for handling the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions will be paid by the Fund. No brokerage charges shall apply with respect to its capital shares issued directly by the Fund under the Plan. Each Plan participant will, however, bear a pro-rata share of brokerage commissions actually incurred with respect to any open market purchases made under the Plan.

 

Experience under the Plan may indicate that changes to it are desirable. The Fund reserves the right to amend or terminate the Plan as applied to any dividend or capital gains distribution paid subsequent to written notice of the change sent to participants at least 30 days before the record date for the dividend or capital gains distribution. The Plan also may be amended or terminated by AST or the Fund on at least 30 days’ written notice to Plan participants. All correspondence concerning the Plan should be directed by mail to American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, 59 Maiden Lane, New York, New York 10038 or by telephone at 1 (877) 366-6441.

 

36

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 


 

Important tax information (unaudited)

 

All of the net investment income distributions paid monthly by the Fund during the taxable year ended October 31, 2008 qualify as tax-exempt interest dividends for Federal income tax purposes.

 

Please retain this information for your records.

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

37

 


 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

Directors

Investment manager

Carol L. Colman

Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC

Daniel P. Cronin

 

Paolo M. Cucchi

Subadviser

Leslie H. Gelb

Western Asset Management Company

R. Jay Gerken, CFA

 

Chairman

Custodian

William R. Hutchinson

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Riordan Roett

225 Franklin Street

Jeswald W. Salacuse

Boston, Massachusetts 02110

 

 

Officers

Transfer agent

R. Jay Gerken, CFA

American Stock Transfer & Trust Company

President and Chief Executive Officer

59 Maiden Lane

 

New York, New York 10038

Kaprel Ozsolak

 

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

Independent registered public accounting firm

 

KPMG LLP

Ted P. Becker

345 Park Avenue

Chief Compliance Officer

New York, New York 10154

 

 

Robert I. Frenkel

Legal counsel

Secretary and Chief Legal Officer

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

 

425 Lexington Avenue

Thomas C. Mandia

New York, New York 10017-3909

Assistant Secretary

 

 

New York Stock Exchange Symbol

Albert Laskaj

MHF

Controller

 

 

 

Steven Frank

 

Controller

 

 

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

55 Water Street

 

New York, New York 10041

 

 


 

 

 

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

 

 

WESTERN ASSET MUNICIPAL HIGH INCOME FUND INC.

 

55 Water Street

 

New York, New York 10041

 

 

 

Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 23(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that from time to time, the Fund may purchase, at market prices, shares of its common stock in the open market.

 

 

 

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C., and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330. To obtain information on Form N-Q from the Fund, shareholders can call 1-800-451-2010.

 

 

 

Information on how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the prior 12-month period ended June 30th of each year and a description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities are available (1) without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-451-2010, (2) on the Fund’s website at www.leggmason.com/cef and (3) on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

 

 

 

This report is transmitted to the shareholders of the Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. for their information. This is not a prospectus, circular or representation intended for use in the purchase of shares of the Fund or any securities mentioned in this report.

 

 

American Stock

Transfer & Trust Company

59 Maiden Lane

New York, New York 10038

 

 

WAS010547 12/08 SR08-711

 


 

ITEM 2.             CODE OF ETHICS.

 

The registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller.

 

ITEM 3.             AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.

 

The Board of Directors of the registrant has determined that William R. Hutchinson, the Chairman of the Board’s Audit Committee, possesses the technical attributes identified in Instruction 2(b) of Item 3 to Form N-CSR to qualify as an “audit committee financial expert,” and has designated Mr. Hutchinson as the Audit Committee’s financial expert. Mr. Hutchinson is an “independent” Director pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Item 3 to Form N-CSR.

 

ITEM 4.             PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

 

a) Audit Fees. The aggregate fees billed in the last two fiscal years ending October 31, 2007 and October 31, 2008 (the “Reporting Periods”) for professional services rendered by the Registrant’s principal accountant (the “Auditor”) for the audit of the Registrant’s annual financial statements, or services that are normally provided by the Auditor in connection with the statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for the Reporting Periods, were $37,000 in 2007 and $38,400 in 2008.

 

b) Audit-Related Fees. The aggregate fees billed in the Reporting Period for assurance and related services by the Auditor that are reasonably related to the performance of the Registrant’s financial statements were $3,722 in 2007 and $0 in 2008. These services consisted of procedures performed in connection with the audit performed relating to the Tender Options Bonds for the Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

In addition, there were no Audit-Related Fees billed in the Reporting Period for assurance and related services by the Auditor to the Registrant’s investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. (“service affiliates”), that were reasonably related to the performance of the annual audit of the service affiliates. Accordingly, there were no such fees that required pre-approval by the Audit Committee for the Reporting Periods (prior to August 6, 2003 services provided by the Auditor were not required to be pre-approved).

 

(c) Tax Fees. The aggregate fees billed in the Reporting Periods for professional services rendered by the Auditor for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning (“Tax Services”) were $5,200 in 2007 and $2,900 in 2008. These services consisted of (i) review or preparation of U.S. federal, state, local and excise tax returns; (ii) U.S. federal, state and local tax planning, advice and assistance regarding statutory, regulatory or administrative developments, and (iii) tax advice regarding tax qualification matters and/or treatment of various financial instruments held or proposed to be acquired or held.

 

There were no fees billed for tax services by the Auditors to service affiliates during the Reporting Periods that required pre-approval by the Audit Committee.

 

d) All Other Fees. There were no other fees billed in the Reporting Periods for products and services provided by the Auditor, other than the services reported in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this Item 4 for the Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

All Other Fees. There were no other non-audit services rendered by the Auditor to Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisors, LLC (“LMPFA”), and any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with LMPFA that provided ongoing services to Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. requiring pre-approval by the Audit Committee in the Reporting Period.

 

(e) Audit Committee’s pre-approval policies and procedures described in paragraph (c) (7) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.

 



 

(1) The Charter for the Audit Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of each registered investment company (the “Fund”) advised by LMPFA or one of their affiliates (each, an “Adviser”) requires that the Committee shall approve (a) all audit and permissible non-audit services to be provided to the Fund and (b) all permissible non-audit services to be provided by the Fund’s independent auditors to the Adviser and any Covered Service Providers if the engagement relates directly to the operations and financial reporting of the Fund.  The Committee may implement policies and procedures by which such services are approved other than by the full Committee.

 

The Committee shall not approve non-audit services that the Committee believes may impair the independence of the auditors.  As of the date of the approval of this Audit Committee Charter, permissible non-audit services include any professional services (including tax services), that are not prohibited services as described below, provided to the Fund by the independent auditors, other than those provided to the Fund in connection with an audit or a review of the financial statements of the Fund.  Permissible non-audit services may not include: (i) bookkeeping or other services related to the accounting records or financial statements of the Fund; (ii) financial information systems design and implementation; (iii) appraisal or valuation services, fairness opinions or contribution-in-kind reports; (iv) actuarial services; (v) internal audit outsourcing services; (vi) management functions or human resources; (vii) broker or dealer, investment adviser or investment banking services; (viii) legal services and expert services unrelated to the audit; and (ix) any other service the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board determines, by regulation, is impermissible.

 

Pre-approval by the Committee of any permissible non-audit services is not required so long as: (i) the aggregate amount of all such permissible non-audit services provided to the Fund, the Adviser and any service providers controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Adviser that provide ongoing services to the Fund (“Covered Service Providers”) constitutes not more than 5% of the total amount of revenues paid to the independent auditors during the fiscal year in which the permissible non-audit services are provided to (a) the Fund, (b) the Adviser and (c) any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Adviser that provides ongoing services to the Fund during the fiscal year in which the services are provided that would have to be approved by the Committee; (ii) the permissible non-audit services were not recognized by the Fund at the time of the engagement to be non-audit services; and (iii) such services are promptly brought to the attention of the Committee and approved by the Committee (or its delegate(s)) prior to the completion of the audit.

 

(2) For the Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc., the percentage of fees that were approved by the audit committee, with respect to: Audit-Related Fees were 100% and 0% for 2007 and 2008; Tax Fees were 100% and 0% for 2007 and 2008; and Other Fees were 100% and 0% for 2007 and 2008.

 

(f) N/A

 

(g) Non-audit fees billed by the Auditor for services rendered to Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc., LMPFA and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with LMPFA that provides ongoing services to Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. during the reporting period were $0 in 2008.

 

(h) Yes.  Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.’s Audit Committee has considered whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to Service Affiliates, which were not pre-approved (not requiring pre-approval), is compatible with maintaining the Accountant’s independence.  All services provided by the Auditor to the Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc. or to Service Affiliates, which were required to be pre-approved, were pre-approved as required.

 

ITEM 5.             AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS.

 

a) The independent board members are acting as the registrant’s audit committee as specified in Section 3(a)(58)(B) of the Exchange Act. The Audit Committee consists of the following Board members:

William R. Hutchinson

Paolo M. Cucchi

Daniel P. Cronin

 



 

Carol L. Colman

Leslie H. Gelb

Dr. Riordan Roett

Jeswald W. Salacuse

 

b) Not applicable

 

ITEM 6.             SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS.

 

Included herein under Item 1.

 

ITEM 7.                                       DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

 

Proxy Voting Guidelines and Procedures

 

Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC (“LMPFA”) delegates the responsibility for voting proxies for the fund to the subadviser through its contracts with the subadviser. The subadviser will use its own proxy voting policies and procedures to vote proxies. Accordingly, LMPFA does not expect to have proxy-voting responsibility for the fund. Should LMPFA become responsible for voting proxies for any reason, such as the inability of the subadviser to provide investment advisory services, LMPFA shall utilize the proxy voting guidelines established by the most recent subadviser to vote proxies until a new subadviser is retained.

 

The subadviser’s Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures govern in determining how proxies relating to the fund’s portfolio securities are voted and are provided below.  Information regarding how each fund voted proxies (if any) relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available without charge (1) by calling 888-425-6432, (2) on the fund’s website at http://www.leggmason.com/individualinvestors  and (3) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Background

 

Western Asset Management Company (“WA”) and Western Asset Management Company Limited (“WAML”) (together “Western Asset”) have adopted and implemented policies and procedures that we believe are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interest of clients, in accordance with our fiduciary duties and SEC Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (“Advisers Act”). Our authority to vote the proxies of our clients is established through investment management agreements or comparable documents, and our proxy voting guidelines have been tailored to reflect these specific contractual obligations. In addition to SEC requirements governing advisers, our proxy voting policies reflect the long-standing fiduciary standards and responsibilities for ERISA accounts. Unless a manager of ERISA assets has been expressly precluded from voting proxies, the Department of Labor has determined that the responsibility for these votes lies with the Investment Manager.

 

In exercising its voting authority, Western Asset will not consult or enter into agreements with officers, directors or employees of Legg Mason Inc. or any of its affiliates (except that WA and WAML may so consult and agree with each other) regarding the voting of any securities owned by its clients.

Policy

 

Western Asset’s proxy voting procedures are designed and implemented in a way that is reasonably expected to ensure that proxy matters are handled in the best interest of our clients. While the guidelines included in the procedures are intended to provide a benchmark for voting standards, each vote is ultimately

 



 

cast on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration Western Asset’s contractual obligations to our clients and all other relevant facts and circumstances at the time of the vote (such that these guidelines may be overridden to the extent Western Asset deems appropriate).

 

Procedures

Responsibility and Oversight

 

The Western Asset Compliance Department (“Compliance Department”) is responsible for administering and overseeing the proxy voting process. The gathering of proxies is coordinated through the Corporate Actions area of Investment Support (“Corporate Actions”). Research analysts and portfolio managers are responsible for determining appropriate voting positions on each proxy utilizing any applicable guidelines contained in these procedures.

 

Client Authority

 

Prior to August 1, 2003, all existing client investment management agreements (“IMAs”) will be reviewed to determine whether Western Asset has authority to vote client proxies. At account start-up, or upon amendment of an IMA, the applicable client IMA are similarly reviewed. If an agreement is silent on proxy voting, but contains an overall delegation of discretionary authority or if the account represents assets of an ERISA plan, Western Asset will assume responsibility for proxy voting. The Client Account Transition Team maintains a matrix of proxy voting authority.

 

Proxy Gathering

 

Registered owners of record, client custodians, client banks and trustees (“Proxy Recipients”) that receive proxy materials on behalf of clients should forward them to Corporate Actions. Prior to August 1, 2003, Proxy Recipients of existing clients will be reminded of the appropriate routing to Corporate Actions for proxy materials received and reminded of their responsibility to forward all proxy materials on a timely basis. Proxy Recipients for new clients (or, if Western Asset becomes aware that the applicable Proxy Recipient for an existing client has changed, the Proxy Recipient for the existing client) are notified at start-up of appropriate routing to Corporate Actions of proxy materials received and reminded of their responsibility to forward all proxy materials on a timely basis. If Western Asset personnel other than Corporate Actions receive proxy materials, they should promptly forward the materials to Corporate Actions.

 

Proxy Voting

 

Once proxy materials are received by Corporate Actions, they are forwarded to the Compliance Department for coordination and the following actions:

 

a. Proxies are reviewed to determine accounts impacted.

 

b. Impacted accounts are checked to confirm Western Asset voting authority.

 

c. Compliance Department staff reviews proxy issues to determine any material conflicts of interest. (See conflicts of interest section of these procedures for further information on determining material conflicts of interest.)

 

d. If a material conflict of interest exists, (i) to the extent reasonably practicable and permitted by applicable law, the client is promptly notified, the conflict is disclosed and Western Asset obtains the client’s proxy voting instructions, and (ii) to the extent that it is not reasonably

 



 

practicable or permitted by applicable law to notify the client and obtain such instructions (e.g., the client is a mutual fund or other commingled vehicle or is an ERISA plan client), Western Asset seeks voting instructions from an independent third party.

 

e. Compliance Department staff provides proxy material to the appropriate research analyst or portfolio manager to obtain their recommended vote. Research analysts and portfolio managers determine votes on a case-by-case basis taking into account the voting guidelines contained in these procedures. For avoidance of doubt, depending on the best interest of each individual client, Western Asset may vote the same proxy differently for different clients. The analyst’s or portfolio manager’s basis for their decision is documented and maintained by the Compliance Department.

 

f. Compliance Department staff votes the proxy pursuant to the instructions received in (d) or (e) and returns the voted proxy as indicated in the proxy materials.

 

Timing

 

Western Asset personnel act in such a manner to ensure that, absent special circumstances, the proxy gathering and proxy voting steps noted above can be completed before the applicable deadline for returning proxy votes.

 

Recordkeeping

 

Western Asset maintains records of proxies voted pursuant to Section 204-2 of the Advisers Act and ERISA DOL Bulletin 94-2. These records include:

 

a. A copy of Western Asset’s policies and procedures.

 

b. Copies of proxy statements received regarding client securities.

 

c. A copy of any document created by Western Asset that was material to making a decision how to vote proxies.

 

d. Each written client request for proxy voting records and Western Asset’s written response to both verbal and written client requests.

 

e. A proxy log including:

 

1. Issuer name;

2. Exchange ticker symbol of the issuer’s shares to be voted;

3. Council on Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (“CUSIP”) number for the shares to be voted;

4. A brief identification of the matter voted on;

5. Whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a shareholder of the issuer;

6. Whether a vote was cast on the matter;

7. A record of how the vote was cast; and

8. Whether the vote was cast for or against the recommendation of the issuer’s management team.

 

Records are maintained in an easily accessible place for five years, the first two in Western Asset’s offices.

 



 

Disclosure

 

Part II of both the WA Form ADV and the WAML Form ADV contain a description of Western Asset’s proxy policies. Prior to August 1, 2003, Western Asset will deliver Part II of its revised Form ADV to all existing clients, along with a letter identifying the new disclosure. Clients will be provided a copy of these policies and procedures upon request. In addition, upon request, clients may receive reports on how their proxies have been voted.

 

Conflicts of Interest

 

All proxies are reviewed by the Compliance Department for material conflicts of interest. Issues to be reviewed include, but are not limited to:

 

1. Whether Western Asset (or, to the extent required to be considered by applicable law, its affiliates) manages assets for the company or an employee group of the company or otherwise has an interest in the company;

 

2. Whether Western Asset or an officer or director of Western Asset or the applicable portfolio manager or analyst responsible for recommending the proxy vote (together, “Voting Persons”) is a close relative of or has a personal or business relationship with an executive, director or person who is a candidate for director of the company or is a participant in a proxy contest; and

 

3. Whether there is any other business or personal relationship where a Voting Person has a personal interest in the outcome of the matter before shareholders.

 

Voting Guidelines

 

Western Asset’s substantive voting decisions turn on the particular facts and circumstances of each proxy vote and are evaluated by the designated research analyst or portfolio manager. The examples outlined below are meant as guidelines to aid in the decision making process.

 

Guidelines are grouped according to the types of proposals generally presented to shareholders. Part I deals with proposals which have been approved and are recommended by a company’s board of directors; Part II deals with proposals submitted by shareholders for inclusion in proxy statements; Part III addresses issues relating to voting shares of investment companies; and Part IV addresses unique considerations pertaining to foreign issuers.

 

I. Board Approved Proposals

 

The vast majority of matters presented to shareholders for a vote involve proposals made by a company itself that have been approved and recommended by its board of directors. In view of the enhanced corporate governance practices currently being implemented in public companies, Western Asset generally votes in support of decisions reached by independent boards of directors. More specific guidelines related to certain board-approved proposals are as follows:

 

1. Matters relating to the Board of Directors

 

Western Asset votes proxies for the election of the company’s nominees for directors and for board-approved proposals on other matters relating to the board of directors with the following exceptions:

 



 

a. Votes are withheld for the entire board of directors if the board does not have a majority of independent directors or the board does not have nominating, audit and compensation committees composed solely of independent directors.

 

b. Votes are withheld for any nominee for director who is considered an independent director by the company and who has received compensation from the company other than for service as a director.

 

c. Votes are withheld for any nominee for director who attends less than 75% of board and committee meetings without valid reasons for absences.

 

d. Votes are cast on a case-by-case basis in contested elections of directors.

 

2. Matters relating to Executive Compensation

 

Western Asset generally favors compensation programs that relate executive compensation to a company’s long-term performance. Votes are cast on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals relating to executive compensation, except as follows:

 

a. Except where the firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire board of directors, Western Asset votes for stock option plans that will result in a minimal annual dilution.

 

b. Western Asset votes against stock option plans or proposals that permit replacing or repricing of underwater options.

 

c. Western Asset votes against stock option plans that permit issuance of options with an exercise price below the stock’s current market price.

 

d. Except where the firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire board of directors, Western Asset votes for employee stock purchase plans that limit the discount for shares purchased under the plan to no more than 15% of their market value, have an offering period of 27 months or less and result in dilution of 10% or less.

 

3. Matters relating to Capitalization

 

The management of a company’s capital structure involves a number of important issues, including cash flows, financing needs and market conditions that are unique to the circumstances of each company. As a result, Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on board-approved proposals involving changes to a company’s capitalization except where Western Asset is otherwise withholding votes for the entire board of directors.

 

a. Western Asset votes for proposals relating to the authorization of additional common stock.

 

b. Western Asset votes for proposals to effect stock splits (excluding reverse stock splits).

 

c. Western Asset votes for proposals authorizing share repurchase programs.

 

4. Matters relating to Acquisitions, Mergers, Reorganizations and Other Transactions

 

Western Asset votes these issues on a case-by-case basis on board-approved transactions.

 



 

5. Matters relating to Anti-Takeover Measures

 

Western Asset votes against board-approved proposals to adopt anti-takeover measures except as follows:

 

a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to ratify or approve shareholder rights plans.

 

b. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to adopt fair price provisions.

 

6. Other Business Matters

 

Western Asset votes for board-approved proposals approving such routine business matters such as changing the company’s name, ratifying the appointment of auditors and procedural matters relating to the shareholder meeting.

 

a. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to amend a company’s charter or bylaws.

 

b. Western Asset votes against authorization to transact other unidentified, substantive business at the meeting.

 

II. Shareholder Proposals

 

SEC regulations permit shareholders to submit proposals for inclusion in a company’s proxy statement. These proposals generally seek to change some aspect of a company’s corporate governance structure or to change some aspect of its business operations. Western Asset votes in accordance with the recommendation of the company’s board of directors on all shareholder proposals, except as follows:

 

1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals to require shareholder approval of shareholder rights plans.

 

2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals that are consistent with Western Asset’s proxy voting guidelines for board-approved proposals.

 

3. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on other shareholder proposals where the firm is otherwise withholding votes for the entire board of directors.

 

III. Voting Shares of Investment Companies

 

Western Asset may utilize shares of open or closed-end investment companies to implement its investment strategies. Shareholder votes for investment companies that fall within the categories listed in Parts I and II above are voted in accordance with those guidelines.

 

1. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to changes in the investment objectives of an investment company taking into account the original intent of the fund and the role the fund plays in the clients’ portfolios.

 

2. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis all proposals that would result in increases in expenses (e.g., proposals to adopt 12b-1 plans, alter investment advisory arrangements or

 



 

approve fund mergers) taking into account comparable expenses for similar funds and the services to be provided.

 

IV. Voting Shares of Foreign Issuers

 

In the event Western Asset is required to vote on securities held in foreign issuers — i.e. issuers that are incorporated under the laws of a foreign jurisdiction and that are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange or the NASDAQ stock market, the following guidelines are used, which are premised on the existence of a sound corporate governance and disclosure framework. These guidelines, however, may not be appropriate under some circumstances for foreign issuers and therefore apply only where applicable.

 

1. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals calling for a majority of the directors to be independent of management.

 

2. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals seeking to increase the independence of board nominating, audit and compensation committees.

 

3. Western Asset votes for shareholder proposals that implement corporate governance standards similar to those established under U.S. federal law and the listing requirements of U.S. stock exchanges, and that do not otherwise violate the laws of the jurisdiction under which the company is incorporated.

 

4. Western Asset votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals relating to (1) the issuance of common stock in excess of 20% of a company’s outstanding common stock where shareholders do not have preemptive rights, or (2) the issuance of common stock in excess of 100% of a company’s outstanding common stock where shareholders have preemptive rights.

 

ITEM 8.                  PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

 

(a)(1):

 

NAME AND ADDRESS
ADDRESS

 

LENGTH OF TIME SERVED

 

PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING
PAST 5 YEARS

 

 

 

 

 

S. Kenneth Leech

Western Asset
385 East Colorado
Blvd. Pasadena, CA
91101

 

Since 2006

 

Co-portfolio manager of the fund; Chief Investment Officer of Western Asset since 1998.

 

 

 

 

 

Stephen A. Walsh

Western Asset
385 East Colorado
Blvd. Pasadena, CA
91101

 

Since 2006

 

Co-portfolio manager of the fund; Deputy Chief Investment Officer of Western Asset since 2000.

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph Deane

Western Asset
385 East Colorado
Blvd. Pasadena, CA
91101

 

Since 2006

 

Co-portfolio manager of the fund; portfolio manager at Western Asset since 2005; prior to that time, Mr. Deane was with Citigroup Asset Management or one of its affiliates since 1972.

 



 

David Fare
Western Asset
385 East
Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA
91101

 

Since 2006

 

Co-portfolio manager of the fund; portfolio manager at Western Asset since 2005; prior to that time, Mr. Fare was with Citigroup Asset Management or one of its affiliates since 1989.

 

 

 

 

 

Robert Amodeo
Western Asset
385 East
Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA
91101

 

Since 2007

 

Co-portfolio manager of the fund; portfolio manager at Western Asset since 2005; prior to that time, Mr. Amodeo was a Managing Director and portfolio manager with Salomon Brothers Asset Management Inc from 1992 to 2005.

 

(a)(2): DATA TO BE PROVIDED BY FINANCIAL CONTROL

 

The following tables set forth certain additional information with respect to the fund’s portfolio managers for the fund. Unless noted otherwise, all information is provided as of October 31, 2008.

 

Other Accounts Managed by Portfolio Managers

 

The table below identifies the number of accounts (other than the fund) for which the fund’s portfolio managers have day-to-day management responsibilities and the total assets in such accounts, within each of the following categories: registered investment companies, other pooled investment vehicles, and other accounts. For each category, the number of accounts and total assets in the accounts where fees are based on performance is also indicated.

 

 

 

Registered

 

Other Pooled

 

 

Portfolio

 

Investment

 

Investment

 

Other

Manager(s)

 

Companies

 

Vehicles

 

Accounts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S. Kenneth Leech

 

112 registered investment companies with $116.9 billion in total assets under management

 

239 Other pooled investment vehicles with $221.2 billion in assets under management

 

1,060 Other accounts with $303.2 billion in total assets under management*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stephen A. Walsh

 

112 registered investment companies with $116.9 billion in total assets under management

 

239 Other pooled investment vehicles with $221.2 billion in assets under management

 

1,060 Other accounts with $303.2 billion in total assets under management*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph P. Deane

 

23 registered investment companies with $20.7 billion in total assets under management

 

1 Other pooled investment vehicle with $8.4 billion in assets under management

 

22 Other accounts with $2.0 billion in total assets under management**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David T. Fare

 

23 registered investment Companies with $20.7 billion

 

1 Other pooled investment vehicle with $8.4 billion in

 

22 Other accounts with $2.0 billion in total assets under management**

 



 

 

 

in total assets Under management

 

assets under management

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Robert Amodeo

 

23 registered investment Companies with $20.7 billion in total assets Under management

 

1 Other pooled investment vehicle with $8.4 billion in assets under management

 

22 Other accounts with $2.0 billion in total assets under management**

 


*    Includes 93 accounts managed, totaling $33.7 billion, for which advisory fee is performance based.

**  Includes 1 account managed, totaling $337.6 million, for which advisory fee is performance based.

 

‡ The numbers above reflect the overall number of portfolios managed by employees of Western Asset Management Company (“Western Asset”).  Mr. Leech and Mr. Walsh are involved in the management of all the Firm’s portfolios, but they are not solely responsible for particular portfolios.  Western Asset’s investment discipline emphasizes a team approach that combines the efforts of groups of specialists working in different market sectors. They are responsible for overseeing implementation of Western Asset’s overall investment ideas and coordinating the work of the various sector teams. This structure ensures that client portfolios benefit from a consensus that draws on the expertise of all team members.

 

(a)(3): Portfolio Manager Compensation

 

With respect to the compensation of the portfolio managers, the Advisers’ compensation system assigns each employee a total compensation “target” and a respective cap, which are derived from annual market surveys that benchmark each role with their job function and peer universe.  This method is designed to reward employees with total compensation reflective of the external market value of their skills, experience, and ability to produce desired results.

 

Standard compensation includes competitive base salaries, generous employee benefits, and a retirement plan.

 

In addition, employees are eligible for bonuses.  These are structured to closely align the interests of employees with those of the Advisers, and are determined by the professional’s job function and performance as measured by a formal review process.  All bonuses are completely discretionary.  One of the principal factors considered is a portfolio manager’s investment performance versus appropriate peer groups and benchmarks.  Because portfolio managers are generally responsible for multiple accounts (including the Portfolio) with similar investment strategies, they are compensated on the performance of the aggregate group of similar accounts, rather than a specific account.  A smaller portion of a bonus payment is derived from factors that include client service, business development, length of service to the Adviser, management or supervisory responsibilities, contributions to developing business strategy and overall contributions to the Adviser’s business.

 

Finally, in order to attract and retain top talent, all professionals are eligible for additional incentives in recognition of outstanding performance.  These are determined based upon the factors described above and include Legg Mason, Inc. stock options and long-term incentives that vest over a set period of time past the award date.

 

Potential Conflicts of Interest

 

Potential conflicts of interest may arise in connection with the management of multiple accounts (including accounts managed in a personal capacity).  These could include potential conflicts of interest related to the knowledge and timing of a Portfolio’s trades, investment

 



 

opportunities and broker selection.  Portfolio managers may be privy to the size, timing and possible market impact of a Portfolio’s trades.

 

It is possible that an investment opportunity may be suitable for both a Portfolio and other accounts managed by a portfolio manager, but may not be available in sufficient quantities for both the Portfolio and the other accounts to participate fully.  Similarly, there may be limited opportunity to sell an investment held by a Portfolio and another account.  A conflict may arise where the portfolio manager may have an incentive to treat an account preferentially as compared to a Portfolio because the account pays a performance-based fee or the portfolio manager, the Advisers or an affiliate has an interest in the account.  The Advisers have adopted procedures for allocation of portfolio transactions and investment opportunities across multiple client accounts on a fair and equitable basis over time.  All eligible accounts that can participate in a trade share the same price on a pro-rata allocation basis in an attempt to mitigate any conflict of interest.  Trades are allocated among similarly managed accounts to maintain consistency of portfolio strategy, taking into account cash availability, investment restrictions and guidelines, and portfolio composition versus strategy.

 

With respect to securities transactions for the Portfolios, the Advisers determine which broker or dealer to use to execute each order, consistent with their duty to seek best execution of the transaction.  However, with respect to certain other accounts (such as pooled investment vehicles that are not registered investment companies and other accounts managed for organizations and individuals), the Advisers may be limited by the client with respect to the selection of brokers or dealers or may be instructed to direct trades through a particular broker or dealer.  In these cases, trades for a Portfolio in a particular security may be placed separately from, rather than aggregated with, such other accounts.  Having separate transactions with respect to a security may temporarily affect the market price of the security or the execution of the transaction, or both, to the possible detriment of a Portfolio or the other account(s) involved.  Additionally, the management of multiple Portfolios and/or other accounts may result in a portfolio manager devoting unequal time and attention to the management of each Portfolio and/or other account.

 

It is theoretically possible that portfolio managers could use information to the advantage of other accounts they manage and to the possible detriment of a Portfolio.  For example, a portfolio manager could short sell a security for an account immediately prior to a Portfolio’s sale of that security.  To address this conflict, the Advisers have adopted procedures for reviewing and comparing selected trades of alternative investment accounts (which may make directional trades such as short sales) with long only accounts (which include the Portfolios) for timing and pattern related issues.  Trading decisions for alternative investment and long only accounts may not be identical even though the same Portfolio Manager may manage both types of accounts.  Whether the Adviser allocates a particular investment opportunity to only alternative investment accounts or to alternative investment and long only accounts will depend on the investment strategy being implemented.  If, under the circumstances, an investment opportunity is appropriate for both its alternative investment and long only accounts, then it will be allocated to both on a pro-rata basis.

 

A portfolio manager may also face other potential conflicts of interest in managing a Portfolio, and the description above is not a complete description of every conflict of interest that could be deemed to exist in managing both a Portfolio and the other accounts listed above.

 

(a)(4): Portfolio Manager Securities Ownership

 

The table below identifies the dollar range of securities beneficially owned by each portfolio managers as of October 31, 2007.

 



 

Portfolio Manager(s)

 

Dollar Range of
Portfolio Securities
Beneficially Owned

S. Kenneth Leech

 

A

Stephen A. Walsh

 

A

Joseph P. Deane

 

A

David T. Fare

 

A

Robert Amodeo

 

A

 

Dollar Range ownership is as follows:
A: none
B: $1 - $10,000
C: 10,001 - $50,000
D: $50,001 - $100,000
E: $100,001 - $500,000
F: $500,001 - $1 million
G: over $1 million

 

ITEM 9.                                                     PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

 

                                                                                                None.

 

ITEM 10.                                               SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

 

                                                                                                None.

 

ITEM 11.                                               CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

 

(a)        The registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a- 3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”)) are effective as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on their evaluation of the disclosure controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act and 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

(b)        There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act) that occurred during the registrant’s last fiscal half-year (the registrant’s second fiscal half-year in the case of an annual report) that have materially affected, or are likely to materially affect the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

ITEM 12.

EXHIBITS.

 

 

 

(a) (1) Code of Ethics attached hereto.

 

Exhibit 99.CODE ETH

 

 

 

(a) (2) Certifications pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 attached hereto.

 

Exhibit 99.CERT

 

 

 

(b) Certifications pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 attached hereto.

 

Exhibit 99.906CERT

 



 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, there unto duly authorized.

 

 

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

 

 

By:

/s/ R. Jay Gerken

 

 

(R. Jay Gerken)

 

 

Chief Executive Officer of

 

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

 

 

Date:

January 5, 2009

 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ R. Jay Gerken

 

 

(R. Jay Gerken)

 

 

Chief Executive Officer of

 

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

 

 

 

Date:

January 5, 2009

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Kaprel Ozsolak

 

 

(Kaprel Ozsolak)

 

 

Chief Financial Officer of

 

 

Western Asset Municipal High Income Fund Inc.

 

 

 

 

Date:

January 5, 2009