NON-EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENT

Marks & Spencer Group PLC
12 August 2003



Issued: Tuesday, 12 August 2003



BARBARA CASSANI APPOINTED AS NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKS & SPENCER



Marks and Spencer Group plc has today announced the appointment of Barbara
Cassani as Non-Executive Director, with effect from 1 October 2003.


Luc Vandevelde, Chairman said: 'I am delighted that Barbara is joining us.  She
has an impressive track record in one of the toughest industries in the world,
with experience of both start-up and established businesses.  She will bring a
new perspective to the Board, at an exciting time in the Company's development.'


Ms Cassani said: 'Marks & Spencer is one of the great British brands.  I am
delighted to be given the opportunity to join the Board. I look forward to
encouraging new ideas that will strengthen connections with the customers.'


Barbara Cassani is Chairman of London 2012, which is bidding to bring the
Olympic Games to the Capital. She established the low-cost airline Go in 1997,
growing the business into one of the most successful low-cost airlines. Three
years later, she led a management buyout of the business from British Airways.
Last year Go was bought by easyJet.


Prior to a 10-year career at British Airways, Ms Cassani was a consultant at
Coopers and Lybrand. Last year she won the Veuve Clicquot Businesswoman of the
Year.



ENDS


For further information, please contact:

Sue Sadler            Corporate Press Office
                      020 7268 8642

Lisa Attenborough     Corporate PR
                      020 7268 6166




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