UN Investigation Update

Compass Group PLC
03 November 2005


3 November 2005

                               Compass Group PLC
                            UN Investigation Update

On 21st October the Company announced that it had instructed Freshfields to
conduct an investigation into the relationships between ESS, IHC and the United
Nations.  Ernst & Young are assisting Freshfields in this investigation.  The
investigation, which is continuing, is being overseen by Steve Lucas, Chairman
of Compass's Audit Committee.

The investigation has raised serious concerns as to whether, within ESS, there
has been, in connection with IHC and the UN, improper conduct and a failure to
comply with the Company's statement of business principles (which apply to all
staff, whatever their seniority).  As a result, Peter Harris, whose suspension
was announced on 21 October, is being dismissed, together with Andrew Seiwert
and a further mid-ranking executive who was associated with UN contracting.  The
management of ESS is being restructured.

Compass will be continuing to cooperate voluntarily and fully as appropriate
with the UN and US authorities, including the Office of the United States
Attorney for the Southern District of New York.




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