AGM Statement

Wolseley PLC
13 December 2002

                                                         EMBARGOED UNTIL 12 noon

                                                                13 December 2002

NEWS RELEASE


                                  Wolseley plc

                                 AGM statement


Wolseley plc is holding its Annual General Meeting today at 12 noon.  At the
meeting, Richard Ireland, Chairman, will make the following comments to
Shareholders:


'There has been no significant change in the challenging market conditions
affecting the group's businesses since the Preliminary results announcement for
the year ended 31 July 2002, issued on 24 September 2002.  The group continues
to make sound progress despite adverse currency and lumber price movements.
Cash flow remains strong and the group is in an excellent position to take
advantage of market or acquisition opportunities as they arise.


In accordance with our normal practice, we will be issuing a more detailed
trading update on 15 January 2003.'


As announced in April, Richard Ireland, Chairman retires from the Board at the
conclusion of the AGM.  He has made an enormous contribution to the group over
the last 47 years during which time the group has progressed to become the major
international building materials, plumbing and heating distributor it is today.
John Whybrow, a non executive director since 1997 and Chairman elect since April
succeeds him.


 FURTHER INFORMATION:


Wolseley plc                                      Brunswick Group Ltd
tel: [phone]                                tel: [phone]


Steve Webster - Group Finance Director            Andrew Fenwick
                                                  Sophie Fitton






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