Statement re Discussions

Weir Group PLC
16 February 2007

                               THE WEIR GROUP PLC


                                                         16 February 2007 at 7am



The Weir Group PLC ('the Group') is in advanced stages of discussions with
Sulzer AG in connection with the sale of the Glasgow based business unit of Weir
Pumps for an expected consideration of £48 million.


The unit manufactures custom-engineered pumps for the upstream oil and power
generation markets. Under the terms being discussed, all 596 employees will
transfer to Sulzer on their existing terms. Sulzer will retain a significant
engineering, design and technical sales presence in addition to a spares and
aftermarket manufacturing facility in Glasgow. However, significant operational
redundancies related to the original equipment business are to be anticipated in
the run up to the previously announced closure of the Cathcart facility in 2009.
Appropriate retention incentives and redundancy packages will be offered to
affected employees.


Weir Services Division does not form part of the discussions and the 660
Services Division employees in the UK, including 116 based in Glasgow, will
remain part of the Group. The head office of The Weir Group PLC continues to be
situated in Glasgow.


Mark Selway, Chief Executive of The Weir Group PLC, commented:


'Weir Pumps business represents 8% of Weir Group revenue and a lower percentage
of annual profits. The business competes in the global marketplace against
manufacturers who have an established presence in low cost countries. We have
been evaluating all options regarding the future of the business and have
concluded that, if the right terms can be agreed, Sulzer will be better placed
to realise the potential of the engineered pumps business and that this sale
will represent the best way forward for the business and shareholders alike.'


A further announcement will be made in due course.

Contact details: The Weir Group PLC
Mark Selway, Chief Executive           Tel. [phone] (switchboard);
Helen Walker, Public Relations Manager Tel. [phone] (Mobile: [phone])
Maitland                               Tel. [phone]
Suzanne Bartch                         (Mobile: [phone])
Peter Ogden




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