Dividend Declaration

British Assets Trust PLC
28 January 2000



First Quarterly Dividend

The Board of British Assets Trust announces that it is declaring a first
quarterly dividend, in respect of the year to 30 September 2000, of 1.26125
pence (1999 - 1.24625 pence) on the ordinary shares of the Company.  This
dividend will be paid on 7 April 2000 to shareholders on the register on 3
March 2000.

For further information please contact:


Gordon Humphries
Friends Ivory & Sime plc:  0131 465 1000