1999 Preliminary Pre-close Statement

Smith & Nephew Plc
21 December 1999

To: Company Announcements

1999 PRELIMINARY PRE-CLOSE STATEMENT

Smith & Nephew plc, the global medical device company, are
meeting analysts today to discuss current trading ahead of the
close period preceding the Preliminary Results.

The strategy to concentrate on orthopaedics, endoscopy and
wound management has continued to increase the rate of
underlying sales growth, which is now running at 7 1/2%.

From:
P.R. Chambers
Assistant Company Secretary