Offer Update

Rio Tinto PLC
4 August 2000


             Rio Tinto confident that bid for North will succeed              

Rio Tinto notes the announcement from Anglo American that it is not to
proceed with its offer for North Limited.
 
Rio Tinto also notes the earlier announcement by the Directors of North
Limited recommending acceptance of the Rio Tinto offer of A$4.75 per share,
in the absence of a higher bid. Given the withdrawal of Anglo American, Rio
Tinto is confident that its bid will succeed.
 
Rio Tinto chairman Sir Robert Wilson said: 'From the outset Rio Tinto has
focused on the capital and operating synergies available with the acquisition
of North. We believe we are the logical acquirer of North.
 
'Our increased offer of A$4.75 per share, announced yesterday, is both good
for North shareholders and value enhancing for Rio Tinto shareholders.'
 
For further information, please contact:
     
Media Relations                   Investor Relations 
 
Lisa Cullimore                    Peter Jarvis
+ 44 (0) 20 7753 2305             + 44 (0) 20 7753 2401
 
Website: www.riotinto.com