Franchise News

FirstGroup PLC
20 December 2005



                                 FirstGroup plc
                            ('First' or 'The Group')


               Statement re:  FirstGroup welcomes franchise news


FirstGroup plc, the UK's largest bus and rail operator, today welcomed the
announcement by the Department for Transport (DfT) that the Group has
successfully pre-qualified for the South Western franchise.

First is a major player in the UK Rail market. Last week the DfT announced that
First has been awarded the Greater Western and Thameslink/Great Northern
franchises both due to commence in April 2006.  First is the only operator to
run InterCity, commuter, regional, sleeper, open access and freight rail
services.

Commenting Moir Lockhead, Chief Executive, said:

'We are delighted to have pre-qualified for the South Western franchise and look
forward to continuing to consult with stakeholders and developing exciting
proposals for the future of the franchise.

'We have a strong record of delivery and investment and of submitting innovative
and robust proposals to increase capacity, optimise performance and enhance the
journey experience and benefits offered to customers.'


Contacts FirstGroup :


Rachael Borthwick, Head of Group Corporate Communications     07771 945432
Stuart Bugg, Corporate Communications Manager                 07734 577684



Notes to Editors:



The Group currently operates First ScotRail (intercity, commuter and regional
railways in Scotland), First Great Western and First Great Western Link
(intercity and suburban service to the west country and Wales from London
Paddington), First TransPennine Express (intercity services between the major
cities in the north of England) and Hull Trains an open access operator.   From
April 2006 the Group will operate the enlarged Greater Western and the new
combined Thameslink/Great Northern franchises.


                      This information is provided by RNS
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