Statement re Press Comment

Associated British Foods PLC
20 March 2000

                 Associated British Foods plc

Following rumours in the Sunday press, Associated British
Foods plc confirms that it has no intention of selling its
bakery division and that no discussions have been or are
taking place with third parties on this issue.

For further information, please contact:

Geoff Lancaster, Associated British Foods plc 
tel: [phone]
Sara Thomas, Citigate Dewe Rogerson
tel: [phone]