Offer Update

Rio Tinto PLC
28 November 2000

                                                                              
                      Rio Tinto achieves 94.7% of Ashton                      
 
As at 5:30pm this evening (Australian time), Rio Tinto had received
acceptances giving it 94.7% of Ashton.
 
Rio Tinto has now satisfied the requirements for compulsory acquisition under
section 661A of the Corporations Law and intends to issue compulsory
acquisition notices as soon as possible.
 
Yesterday, Rio Tinto extended its Offer to 7:30pm AEDT Wednesday 13 December,
2000. This will allow Ashton shareholders the opportunity to accept the Offer
ahead of compulsory acquisition.
 
Rio Tinto intends to send payment to Ashton shareholders who accept the offer
within five business days of receipt of a valid acceptance.
 
Ashton shareholders whose shares are compulsorily acquired will, of
necessity, be paid later than those who choose to accept the Offer.
 
 
For further information, please contact:
 
LONDON 
 
Media Relations                     Investor Relations 
Lisa Cullimore                      Peter Jarvis
+ 44 (0) 20 7753 2305               + 44 (0) 20 7753 2401
 
AUSTRALIA 
 
Media Relations                     Investor Relations 
Fiona Powell                        Dave Skinner
[phone] (office)         [phone] (office)
[phone] (mobile)         [phone] (mobile)
                    
                                    Daphne Morros
                                    [phone] (office)
                                    [phone] (mobile)
 
Website: www.riotinto.com