Trading Update

Weir Group PLC
8 December 1999



                            THE WEIR GROUP PLC
                             UPDATE ON TRADING

The Weir Group has just completed a review of its projected financial results
for 1999 and of the budget for 2000.

Whilst growth will be strong in 2000, it is clear that in the second half of
1999 short lead time business has not improved as was expected in August when
we announced the interim results.  Although enquiry levels and order prospects
generally are slowly improving, the oil, power and minerals processing markets
have remained fairly sluggish.  Also, some customers have required delays on
deliveries on current contracts until 2000.  Results from associate and joint
venture companies show a downturn in contribution from railway maintenance as
well as reduced demand for tools from the oil industry.  In these
circumstances, and after including a first time contribution from Warman of
some £3 million, operating profits for 1999 before goodwill amortisation,
interest payable and exceptional items, are expected to be some 8 per cent
lower than the comparable 1998 results.

Excellent progress is being made in integrating Warman into the Group's pump
operations.  The 1999 results will include an exceptional rationalisation
provision of some £7 million and this expenditure, together with other
management actions, will help to achieve synergy benefits of around £8m per
annum in 2001.  Goodwill amortisation and interest costs mainly as a result of
the rapid completion of the acquisition will rise to £3m and £4m respectively
in the 1999 results.  We continue to expect the acquisition to be earnings
enhancing pre goodwill in 2000, with the full benefit of the savings to be
seen in 2001.

Looking ahead, the Group will enter 2000 with a higher order book than in 1999
as bookings have exceeded invoiced sales.  With the inclusion of a full year
of Warman, Group turnover from existing operations can be expected to show
growth of at least 25% from 1999 and will result in an excellent year of
progress for the Group.


Enquiries to:

Sir Ron Garrick, chairman
Duncan Whyte, chief executive
Emrys Inker, public relations manager

Telephone:  [phone]
Facsimile:  0141 637 2221