Statement re press speculation concerning Metso...

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The Weir Group PLC

1 April 2014

The Weir Group Plc ("Weir") notes the recent press speculation concerning a possible transaction involving Weir and Metso Corporation ("Metso") and the subsequent statement from Metso.  Weir confirms that it has made an indicative all share merger proposal to the Board of Metso.

The Board of Weir believes that there is a strong strategic rationale for bringing the two companies together which would offer the opportunity for significant efficiencies and synergies, creating significant value for all shareholders.  Weir envisages that the merged entity would be listed on both the London and Helsinki Stock Exchanges.

Weir will make a further announcement as appropriate in due course.

Shareholders are advised that there can be no certainty that the merger proposal will lead to any agreement, or as to the timing or terms of any such agreement and there can be no assurance that, even if reached, any such agreement would lead to a transaction.

Any transaction would be subject, inter alia, to Weir shareholder approval.

Enquiries:

The Weir Group PLC                                                     

Raymond Buchanan, Group Communications                 Tel:  + 44 141 308 3781

Brunswick Group                                                           Tel: + 44 207 404 5959

Patrick Handley

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The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.
Source: The Weir Group PLC via Globenewswire

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