The correct answer is: B. In form companies are separate, in substance, they are one.
Consolidated financial statements are prepared to show the financial position and results of operations of a group of companies as if they were a single economic entity. This is done by combining the financial statements of the parent company and its subsidiaries, eliminating the intercompany transactions and balances.
The principle of consolidation is that, in substance, the parent company and its subsidiaries are one economic entity. This means that the parent company controls the subsidiaries and can use its power to influence their financial and operating policies. As a result, the financial statements of the parent company and its subsidiaries should be combined to show the financial position and results of operations of the group as a whole.
Option A is incorrect because it states that the companies are separate in both form and substance. This is not the case, as the parent company controls the subsidiaries and can use its power to influence their financial and operating policies.
Option C is incorrect because it states that the companies are one entity in both form and substance. This is not the case, as the parent company and its subsidiaries are separate legal entities.
Option D is incorrect because it states that the companies are separate in form and substance. This is not the case, as the parent company controls the subsidiaries and can use its power to influence their financial and operating policies.