Statement re Shortlisting for ScotRail franchise

FIRSTGROUP PLC                                 
                         (`FirstGroup' or `the Group')                         
                                                                               
         Statement re: SHORTLISTING FOR SCOTRAIL FRANCHISE COMPETITION         



FirstGroup has been shortlisted for the ScotRail franchise competition by the
Scottish Government. The Group currently operates the franchise which provides
passenger train services throughout Scotland. The new ten year contract, with a
potential break point after five years, will be awarded next year and is
expected to start in April 2015.

Commenting, Vernon Barker, FirstGroup's Managing Director, UK Rail said:

"We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the ScotRail franchise
competition.

"As a Scottish company, we are proud to run Scotland's railway and proud of our
success in growing the business. First ScotRail now carries 83 million
passengers a year, 30% more than in 2004, and has introduced 300 more services
per day, whilst seeing record high customer satisfaction scores. We also hold
the title of Scottish Public Transport Operator of the Year.

"The railway is integral to Scotland's growing and ambitious economy and we
look forward to submitting a compelling, competitive and value for money bid
which meets the needs of customers, businesses and taxpayers. We have
demonstrated that we have the capability and commitment to meet that challenge
and deliver for the people of Scotland."

Further information, FirstGroup:
Stuart Butchers, Group Corporate Communications Manager
Tel: [phone]