Reclassification of Spirent

Spirent PLC
18 July 2000

                        SPIRENT TO BE RECLASSIFIED UNDER
                 FTSE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE SECTOR

Spirent plc ('Spirent'), the international technology company, announces
that following a decision by the FTSE Global Classification Committee, it
will be reclassified under the 'Telecommunications Equipment' sub-sector of
the 'Information Technology Hardware' sector with effect from 24 July 2000.

The transfer of Spirent from the 'Electronic and Electrical Equipment'
sector reflects the increasing focus of the company on its telecommunications
activities.  In the second half of 1999, operating profit before goodwill
amortisation for its Communications group accounted for 51 per cent of
operating profit for continuing businesses.  The Communications group produces
innovative, high performance test solutions for developers, manufacturers and
evaluators of telecommunications equipment and for operators of telecoms
networks.

Nicholas Brookes, Chief Executive, commented:

'We are pleased that Spirent has been moved to the Information Technology
Hardware sector, as this more accurately reflects the changing shape and
strategic direction of our business.'


Enquiries:

Nicholas Brookes, Chief Executive   Spirent plc           [phone]
Eric Hutchinson, Finance Director

Jon Coles/Rupert Young              Brunswick (London)    [phone]
Sara Strong/Nina Pawlak             Brunswick (New York)  [phone]

Background note:

Spirent plc is a global business providing state-of-the-art electronic
solutions with a focus on high growth, high margin, high technology
activities.  It is a world leader in advanced telecommunications testing
systems.  www.spirent.com

Spirent is quoted on the London Stock Exchange, ticker SPT.  The Company
operates a Level 1 American Depository Receipt programme (ticker: SPNUY;
CUSIP number: 84856M100).  For information, contact Brian Heston, The Bank
of New York, American Depositary Receipts, 101 Barclay St, 22 West, New
York, NY 10286  Phone: [phone], Fax:  [phone], email:
[e-mail]  web site: www.adrbny.com

The FTSE Global Classification System is operated by FTSE.  For further
information please contact FTSE Client Services on [phone] or
+(1) 212 771 6595.  Alternatively, email enquiries to [e-mail] or visit
www.ftse.com