Re Directorate

National Grid Group PLC
30 July 2001



Embargoed until 0700, 30 July 2001

30 July 2001


                    National Grid Appoints Board Director


The Board of National Grid Group plc is pleased to announce the appointment of
Edward Astle as Group Director, Telecommunications with effect from 1
September 2001. He will assume responsibility for the company's portfolio of
telecoms businesses and future investment strategy in this area.

Edward Astle, 47, has over 15 years experience in the telecoms industry.
Between 1989 -1997 he held a variety of positions with Cable and Wireless (C&
W). Initially he was Regional Director Europe, with responsibility for
building a pan-European business unit and leading C&W's involvement in the
Swedish Tele2 joint venture with Kinnevik. In 1993 he became CEO of their
global networks and marine divisions, and in 1995 joined the C&W board as
Executive Director - Global Businesses. From 1997-1999 he was Managing
Director of BICC Communications with board responsibility for their optical
fibre and cable systems businesses, which he successfully restructured and
subsequently negotiated their sale to Corning.

Edward currently has a portfolio of telecoms and related technology interests
including the chairmanship of Dataflex Holdings plc, but will step down from
this role in mid-September 2001. He will continue in his other roles as
non-executive Chairman of 3G Lab Ltd, and non-executive director of Intec
Telecom Systems plc. He is married with 4 children.

National Grid Chairman, James Ross, commented:

'Edward's appointment to the National Grid Board will add to the strength of
the management team. He will provide valuable telecoms expertise and
additional international business development experience. We are all delighted
to welcome Edward to the Board.'


                                  Enquiries:


National Grid:

Investors

Marcy Reed                 + 44 (0) 20 7312 5779

Terry McCormick            + 44 (0) 20 7312 5785



Media

Susan Stevens              + 44 (0) 20 7312 5740



Citigate Dewe Rogerson:    + 44 (0) 20 7638 9571

Anthony Carlisle           + 44 (0) 7973 611888 (mobile)

Sue Pemberton              + 44 (0) 20 7282 2842