East Midlands Rail Franchise

National Express Group PLC
22 June 2007


                           National Express Group PLC

                          East Midlands Rail Franchise

National Express Group PLC ('the Group') notes today's announcement from the
Department for Transport ('DfT') advising on the award of the East Midlands rail
franchise.

Commenting on the announcement, Richard Bowker, Chief Executive, said: 'We are
very disappointed with today's announcement. We look forward to the DfT
explaining the reasons for their decision.

'I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our employees at Midland
Mainline and Central Trains. Midland Mainline's record of constant improvement
has resulted in the company being top of industry league tables for operational
performance as well as customer satisfaction, a record of which we are truly
proud.

'The team at Central Trains have shown what can be achieved in a difficult
franchise with the right people and the right focus.'

The Group will release its pre close trading update on 2 July.


                                    - ENDS -

Notes to Editors:

• National Express Group runs bus, train, light rail and express coach and
  airport operations worldwide. Around one billion journeys a year are made on
  our services. We have leading positions in each of our markets - the United
  Kingdom, North America and Spain.


• National Express Group is one of the most experienced and successful train 
  operators in the UK and has recently submitted its bid for the Inter-City East 
  Coast route to the DfT. The winning bidder will be announced in late summer 
  and the franchise will commence in December 2007.


For further information, please contact:

Nicola Marsden/Alison Flynn
National Express Group PLC                 020 7529 2000




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