Disposal

Smiths Group PLC
7 May 2002

Smiths Medical sale of non-core businesses

Smiths Group has sold two of its specialist medical device businesses, neither
of which is considered a core activity, for £7.3 million in cash.  The urology
products and ostomy products businesses have been purchased by Mentor
Corporation, a NASDAQ-listed U.S. company.


Urology products are used by long-term incontinence sufferers and are made at
Colchester, Essex.  Ostomy products, used by patients following a bowel or
bladder diversion operation, are manufactured in Lancing, West Sussex.   These
products are marketed primarily under the Simcare brand which is being
transferred with the businesses.  Both businesses are expected to benefit from
joining a company specialising in products for this segment of the international
healthcare industry.


Smiths Group has market leading positions in aerospace systems, medical devices,
mechanical & polymer seals, and interconnect products.  For further information,
visit www.smiths-group.com





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