Synetix Acquisition

Johnson,Matthey PLC
01 November 2002



                                 For immediate release Friday 1st November 2002


                 Johnson Matthey Completes Principal Part of

                             Synetix Acquisition


Johnson Matthey announces that it has today completed its acquisition of the
Synetix division of ICI in all territories except India. This transaction was
first announced on 23rd September 2002.


Completion of the purchase of those Synetix businesses which are owned by ICI
India Limited remains subject to the approval of ICI India Limited's
shareholders. This is expected before the end of 2002.



Enquiries:



Ian Godwin,       Group Corporate Communications Manager         020 7269 8410
Howard Lee / Laura Hickman, Gavin Anderson & Co                  020 7554 1400




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