Acquisition of Complementary Telecomms Business

Halma PLC
15 May 2000

           HALMA ACQUIRES COMPLEMENTARY TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUSINESS           
                      MARKET ENHANCEMENT IN SAFETY NICHE                      

Electronic Micro Systems Inc. ('EMS'), is one of the Group's fast growing and
successful electronic safety companies and is the market leading supplier of
emergency telecommunications equipment for elevators.  To further enhance the
position of EMS, the Directors of Halma p.l.c. announce that on Friday, 12 May
2000, the Group completed the purchase of the business and assets of
Vandal-Proof Products Inc. based in Trenton, New Jersey, USA. This business
will be folded into EMS.

Stephen O'Shea, the Halma Group Chief Executive commented 'Growing concern for
safety in public places, supported by increased legislation, is providing many
opportunities.  Vandal-Proof Products is a rapidly-growing business creating
and selling vandal-resistant emergency voice communication products.  These
are used in transportation facilities such as airport terminals, metro
stations and other areas such as parking garages, university campuses and
shopping malls.  The addition of the new technology and control software will
accelerate profit growth from EMS.'

The unaudited accounts of Vandal-Proof Products show sales in the year to 
31 December 1999 of $1,264,000, and net tangible assets at acquisition were
$363,000.  The maximum consideration payable, including non-competition
payments and the maximum possible bonuses earned on the sales of Vandal-Proof
Products up to 30 March 2002 amounts to $920,000.

Copies of this announcement may be obtained from the Company's registered
office for a period of fourteen days.


Press Contact:    Mr Stephen R O'Shea
                  Chief Executive, Halma p.l.c.
                  Tel:  [phone]