Compulsory Acqn of Shares

Rio Tinto PLC
2 June 2000


              Rio Tinto to issue compulsory acquisition notices               
                        for outstanding Comalco shares                        
 
 
Rio Tinto has filed a further Substantial Shareholder Notice with Australian
Stock Exchange today showing its holding in Comalco at 95.67%.
 
As previously announced, Rio Tinto has satisfied the requirements for
compulsory acquisition under section 661A of the Corporations Law. Rio Tinto
now intends to issue compulsory acquisition notices as soon as possible.
 
Rio Tinto's offer is due to close on Monday 5 June at 7:00pm (Australian
EST).
 
Rio Tinto intends to pay Comalco shareholders who accept the offer for cash
within three business days of receipt of a valid acceptance, and for those
accepting for share or cash and share alternatives within five business days
of receipt of a valid acceptance.
 
Comalco shareholders whose shares are compulsorily acquired will, of
necessity, be paid later than those who choose to accept the offer.
 
 
 
For further information, please contact:
     
Media Relations                      
 
John Hughes                    
+ 44 (0) 20 7753 2331               
 
Website: www.riotinto.com