AGM Statement

Avon Rubber PLC
4 February 2002



                              CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT

                       FOR AGM ON MONDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2002



The first quarter of the current financial year has progressed broadly in line
with our expectations.  Our North American business recovered from the
disruption following the 11 September attacks in New York and Washington and,
with the inventory of cars at lower levels than the previous year, schedules
from our customers are more settled.

Total sales of continuing businesses were 2% down in the first quarter compared
with the equivalent period one year earlier.  North American automotive division
sales were 12% down reflecting the strong first quarter last year before the
severe cutbacks in production by the big three car manufacturers in the January/
March 2001 period. European Automotive sales were slightly down in the quarter
compared with the previous year and profits in both regions were below last
year's levels.  However the reduction in our stock levels which led to lower
comparative operating profits, is being reflected in improved cash flow and net
debt.  During the first quarter the UK automotive hose facility at Trowbridge
recorded losses, reflecting pricing pressures and lower sales.  In December we
announced the likely closure of this plant.  Since that time extensive
consultations with workforce representatives have taken place and agreement has
been reached on a closure programme which will take place progressively over the
coming year with production being transferred to our factories in central and
southern Europe.

Whilst sales in Technical Products in the first quarter were down by around 8%,
profits recovered to a level well ahead of last year, reflecting better results
at the new UK factory at Hampton Park West.  We have successfully completed on
time  delivery of more than 1,000 respirators for assessment by the US
Department of Defense for the Joint Services General Purpose Mask Programme.
Sales of aerosol gasket seals, dairy rubberware and crawler tracks have
recovered to more normal levels following the disruptions during the prior year,
while business machine component sales in the UK remain depressed but are being
offset by increased sales in continental Europe.

We do not expect to see significant sales recovery during the second quarter but
the actions we have taken to reduce costs and eliminate loss making businesses
are expected to be reflected in better operating performance.

The Company's facilities are well invested and we expect capital expenditure to
remain significantly below depreciation for the rest of the year.  This,
together with a continuing emphasis on tight control of working capital and
successful pursuit of our disposal programme, will maintain the focus on  net
debt.


                                   -  Ends -



Enquiries to:


Avon Rubber p.l.c.              
Jayne Hunt                                          Tel: [phone]

Weber Shandwick Square Mile
Richard Hews and Trish Featherstone                 Tel:  [phone]



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