Appointment of Chairman

Smith WH PLC
23 November 2001


23 November 2001



                                WHSmith News

                          Appointment of Chairman


WH Smith PLC announced today the appointment of Tim Hely Hutchinson as
Chairman, WHSmith News, with immediate effect.  Brendan Fitzmaurice, Managing
Director of WHSmith News will report directly to Tim.

Tim joined WH Smith PLC in 1999, following the Group's acquisition of Hodder
Headline where he will continue as Chief Executive.  Tim's career in publishing
began with Macmillan Publishers and he was a founding director of Headline in
1986. Headline was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1991.

Richard Handover, Chief Executive WH Smith PLC, commented: ' I am delighted
that Tim has accepted this role in addition to his current responsibilities as
Chief Executive of Hodder Headline.  Tim's appointment will bring a fresh
perspective to the News business following a year of significant change. His
extensive business experience will enable him to provide the WHSmith News
Management Executive team with invaluable counsel.'


                                    -Ends-



Enquiries:

WH Smith PLC

Louise Evans, Media Relations                               0207 514 9624
Richard Manhire, Investor Relations                         0207 514 9686

WHSmith News

Gerry Brown, WHSmith News                                    01793 563574