Director Shareholding

3i Group PLC
17 May 2005


The Listing Rules - Chapter 16, Paragraph 16.13


Pursuant to the rules of The 3i Group Discretionary Share Plan, on 17 May 2005,
Mr S P Ball, a Director of 3i Group plc, was granted the right (the 'Option') to
acquire 245,022 Ordinary Shares of 50p each ('Shares').  The Option is
exercisable, subject to a performance condition, from and including 17 May 2008,
at a price of £6.53 per Share, and shall lapse on 16 May 2015.  The
consideration for the grant is nil.

The Director notified the Company of his interest in these Shares on 17 May
2005.



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