Disposal

Marks & Spencer PLC
16 October 2001

16 October 2001

Marks and Spencer p.l.c. has announced a proposal to sell its French company
to Groupe Galeries Lafayette. This proposal is subject to consultation with
the staff of Marks & Spencer France, who will be offered opportunities for
jobs in Galeries Lafayette. The intention remains to cease trading in Marks &
Spencer France by the end of the year.

In Belgium no acceptable offer to acquire the Marks & Spencer company has been
received. The stores will therefore be sold as properties and all staff will
be made redundant with compensation in accordance with a plan being agreed
with them.



For more information please contact:

Corporate Press Team:           020 7268 1919