British Gas Energy Centres

CENTRICA PLC
19 July 1999


Centrica plc has today announced the closure of its 243 British
Gas Energy Centres.  British Gas will continue to supply fires,
cookers and associated products through home shopping facilities.

Energy Centres losses after exceptional charges were £33m in
1998 on turnover of £169m.  Every effort has been made to turn
the business round.  However, High Street trading conditions
have been very difficult for an extended period, exacerbated by
intense competitive activity.  As a result, losses have
continued and are estimated to be £25m for the first half of
1999.  In the light of this, and of future prospects, Centrica's
strategic review concluded that no further investment should be
made in the high street shop network.  The total cost of
closure, including associated trading, is estimated at £60m,
which will be charged in the current year.

The closure will take place over the next six weeks.

Roy Gardner, Chief Executive of Centrica said:

'We are continuing to develop our strategy of providing
customers with high quality services and value for money
products with a focus on energy supply, home and motoring
services and financial services.  Our intention is to re-deploy
as many staff as possible across the Centrica group, where
extensive opportunities exist across our substantial business
base.'

Enquiries

Neville Barltrop        Media Relations          01753 758445
Jo Sommers              Investor Relations       01753 758112