Future France Update

Future Network PLC 16 October 2000 RESULT OF FUTURE FRANCE ACCOUNTING INVESTIGATION The Board of The Future Network plc (LSE: FNET) announces the result of its investigation, with Deloitte & Touche, into the accounting irregularity previously reported at its French subsidiary, Future France SA. The result confirms that sales and operating profits have been overstated by FF45million (£4.2m) since 1998. The impact of this amount on Group revenues and operating profit over the affected financial periods is shown below: Year to 31 Dec 1998 Year to 31 Dec 1999 Six months to June 2000 FF20m (£1.9m) FF13m (£1.2m) FF12m (£1.1m) The Directors note that this is more than the earlier estimate of 'in the region of FF35mm' but are satisfied that the problem is now fully accounted for. The problem was flawed local bookkeeping in the recording of magazine newstrade sales and in the estimates of the reserves against future returns. This resulted in sales figures and debtor balances being overstated. Since this problem was one of bookkeeping there has - as previously stated - been no impact on cash. For more information: The Future Network plc Greg Ingham, Chief Executive 01225 442244 Ian Linkins, Finance Director 01225 442244 Hogarth Partnership James Longfield 0171 357 9477

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