Offer Update

Rio Tinto PLC
10 November 2000

               Rio Tinto's shareholding in Ashton is now 50.36%               
 
 
Since releasing a statement earlier today announcing details of its Offer
terms for Ashton, Rio Tinto has received further acceptances that now give it
a relevant interest in 50.36% of the issued shares of Ashton.
 
This increased interest does not alter Rio Tinto's scheduled closing date of
Monday, 27 November 2000 for the Offer.
 
 
 
For further information, please contact:
     
Media Relations                     Investor Relations 
 
Lisa Cullimore                      Peter Jarvis
+ 44 (0) 20 7753 2305               + 44 (0) 20 7753 2401
 
Website: www.riotinto.com