Response to DTI Statement

WHITBREAD PLC
15 July 1999

              Whitbread response to D.T.I. statement


The board of Whitbread expresses its surprise and disappointment at the
announcement by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry which appears to
run contrary to the spirit of the Beer Orders.

No clarification of the announcement has been received and the board is
seeking an urgent meeting with the regulatory authorities so that it can
properly assess the implications.