Statement re Speculation

Marks & Spencer Group PLC
28 February 2007

Marks and Spencer Group plc

28 February 2007


               Statement regarding J Sainsbury plc ('Sainsbury')

In response to recent speculation, the Board of Marks and Spencer Group plc 
('Marks and Spencer') confirms that it has been considering its position in
relation to a possible combination with Sainsbury.  Further to this, the Board
has decided that it does not intend to make an offer for Sainsbury at this time.

For the purposes of Rule 2.8 and other relevant provisions of The City Code on
Takeovers and Mergers ('City Code'), Marks and Spencer reserves the right to
announce an offer or possible offer or make or participate in an offer or
possible offer for Sainsbury and/or take any other action which would otherwise
be restricted under Rule 2.8 of the City Code within the next six months, in the
event that:

(i) an agreement or recommendation from the board of Sainsbury is forthcoming;
or

(ii) there is an announcement by CVC, KKR and Blackstone of a firm intention to
make an offer or there is an announcement by any other third party of a possible
offer or a firm intention to make an offer for Sainsbury or Sainsbury announces
that it has received an approach in relation to a possible offer from any other
third party; or

(iii) Sainsbury announces a 'whitewash' proposal for the purposes of Rule 9 of
the City Code or a reverse takeover; or

(iv) there is a material change in circumstances.


Enquiries:

Marks and Spencer
Amanda Mellor                                     020 8718 3604 / 07747 461 241
Corporate Press Office                            020 8718 1919
                                                  020 8718 2000 (out of hours)

Tulchan Communications                            020 7353 4200 / 07770 536 202
Kirstie Hamilton




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