STATEMENT

Marks & Spencer Group PLC
3 April 2002



Issued: 3 April 2002


                                   STATEMENT

Contrary to recent speculation, the Marks & Spencer board does not intend to
make any announcements about the leadership of the company at this time.

Luc Vandevelde, Chairman and CEO commented:

'We are still in the early stages of recovery and the board believes that it is
vital the company keeps to its carefully orchestrated plan delivered in a
logical sequence.

We will be announcing an update on the last quarter's trading on 9 April. On 21
May, we will be reporting our preliminary results for the year and will take
this opportunity to outline the next phase of our plan.

The board is conscious of the need to continuously adapt the organisation's
structure to meet business priorities and, as such, will consider any structural
implications as and when it is appropriate.


For further information, please contact:

Sue Sadler Corporate Press Office 020 7268 8642


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