Pre-Close Announcement

Smith & Nephew Plc
20 December 2000

20 December 2000




           Smith & Nephew plc 2000 Preliminary Pre-Close Statement

Smith & Nephew, the global medical devices company, today spoke to analysts to
provide an update ahead of the close period preceding the Preliminary Results
announcement in February 2001.


As previously announced, the traditional woundcare, casting and bandaging
businesses of Smith & Nephew are being combined in a global joint venture with
Beiersdorf AG, with the intention to commence operations on 2 April 2001,
subject to competition clearance. All competition clearance submissions have
been made. The company is also proceeding with the proposed divestment of its
Ear, Nose and Throat business.


Overall, trading is up to expectations and largely reflects the trends seen in
the first half. As a result of its restructuring, Smith & Nephew will have
four business units - Orthopaedics, Endoscopy, Advanced Wound Management and
Rehabilitation. These four, which make up the continuing businesses of the
Group, are currently achieving underlying sales growth of approximately 8%.


Chris O'Donnell, Chief Executive of Smith & Nephew, said 'The sales growth we
have reported today for our four key businesses endorses our decision to
concentrate on these going forward. We remain on target to deliver our
financial goals, and are strongly positioned for future growth'.

Enquiries:

Chris O'Donnell, Chief Executive                     Tel: [phone]
Smith & Nephew plc                                   Fax: [phone]

Peter Hooley, Finance Director                       Tel: [phone]
Smith & Nephew plc                                   Fax: [phone]

Margaret Stewart, Group Director, Corporate Affairs  Tel: [phone]
Smith & Nephew plc                                   Fax: [phone]

Jonathan Birt                                        Tel: [phone]
Financial Dynamics                                   Fax: [phone]