Restricted Share Scheme

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC 28 September 2000 The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc Restricted Share Scheme - 2000 Appropriation Following the successful completion of the acquisition by The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc ('RBSG') of National Westminster Bank Plc ('NatWest') on 6 March 2000, performance bonuses were awarded to certain Executive Directors of RBSG in recognition of their contributions. The bonuses were paid in cash and shares and individual Directors could elect to receive up to 100 per cent of their bonus in shares. Income tax on the cash element of the bonus was due and immediately payable at the date of payment. Consequently, on 29 March 2000, RBSG announced that appropriations totalling 144,080 ordinary shares had been made at a price of £7.60 per share to Executive Directors participating in RBSG's Restricted Share Scheme ('the Scheme'). The prevailing market price at that time was £7.91 per share. When the awards were made it was decided that vesting of the relevant shares should be deferred for six months. The purpose of this deferred vesting was to ensure that the Directors' interests were closely aligned with those of RBSG's shareholders during the important early stages of the integration of NatWest with RBSG and that the risks and benefits of successful implementation were shared. Under the rules of the Scheme, the shares have been released today, 28 September 2000 and transferred to the Directors. , and transferred to the Directors for no consideration. Income tax, calculated by reference to current market value, is due and payable immediately in respect of the relevant shares. Contact: David Appleton 0131 523 4414 Head of Group Media Relations
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