Hays agrees settlement

Hays PLC
18 March 2002


                HAYS AGREES SETTLEMENT OF CONSIGNIA CLAIM


Hays plc has today agreed to settle Consignia's damages claim against it for
infringements of the Postal Services Act 2000 and the British
Telecommunications Act 1981, in a major development in the new postal services
market.  Hays has paid £5.5 million in damages and costs to bring the case to
an end.

Hays DX's Managing Director, Neil Tregarthen said:

'We are pleased Hays DX can now concentrate fully on developing its products
and services to meet the needs of its clients.  We have reached agreement with
Consignia in the interest of ensuring an orderly market for the future.'

Strategy and Business Development Group Managing Director for Consignia, Stuart
Sweetman said:  'We were justified in bringing the proceedings against Hays, as
this payment by them recognizes.  We have also taken a stand to show that
Consignia will protect its ability to provide the universal service by taking
action when it sees other operators infringing its rights.'


Enquiries:

Neil Tregarthen            Hays Mail and Express              01753 630 630

Jon Coles                  Brunswick                          020 7404 5959


                      This information is provided by RNS
            The company news service from the London Stock Exchange