Statement re Possible Offer

Barclays PLC
22 November 2004


                                                                22 November 2004

                 A BARCLAYS STATEMENT - ABSA DISCUSSIONS UPDATE

As part of its interim results announcement today, the South African bank ABSA
Group Limited (ABSA) provided an update on discussions with Barclays Bank PLC
(Barclays) regarding a possible acquisition of a majority stake in ABSA by
Barclays.

Shareholders are advised that these discussions have progressed well between
ABSA and Barclays and also with the major shareholders of ABSA.  The due
diligence is complete and progress has been made in advancing discussions with
the appropriate regulatory authorities, although no formal applications have yet
been made.

The price at which any formal offer may be made may or may not be at a premium
to the current market price bearing in mind the significant rise in ABSA's share
price since the start of discussions regarding a possible offer.

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations:

Cathy Turner             [phone]

Media Relations:

Chris Tucker              [phone]

Pam Horrell               [phone]


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