AGM Statement

Cropper(James) PLC
2 August 2001

Issued by Citigate Dewe Rogerson Ltd, Birmingham

Date: Thursday 2 August 2001                          IMMEDIATE RELEASE



                              JAMES CROPPER PLC

                       CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT FOR THE AGM


At today's (2 August 2001) Annual General Meeting, James Cropper, Chairman
told shareholders:

'I am pleased to report that the Group has traded profitably in the opening
Quarter of the current financial year.


The Papermaking Division moved back into profit in April after the relentless
increase in the cost of pulp reversed. Pulp prices are now moving downward and
are expected to remain relatively low for the time being. However the cost of
gas remains high and the weakness of the Euro continues to dampen sales prices
in the UK market as a result of import penetration. The Division, along with
most sectors of the papermaking industry, is still affected by subdued demand
in the UK and Europe. Although we expect volume to be up on last year, growth
will not be as strong as we initially anticipated. Our Recovery Plan with its
action on overheads and impact on jobs has started to deliver savings with
more to come from efficiency improvements both in raw material usage and
working practices. The Board's objective is to return the Division to modest
profitability in the year.


Technical Fibre Products had a good opening month but since then industrial
markets have been affected by the world-wide economic slowdown. The uptake of
fire protection materials has been slower than anticipated due to delays in
implementing new fire regulations in the USA. We remain confident however that
we will benefit substantially from our new product stream when markets improve
in North America.


The Converting Division has had a good opening period and maintains a strong
position in its key markets. Recent investments have increased its range of
innovative products and will strengthen the service given to customers. The
Division is well placed to take advantage of the improved trading conditions
which normally develop in the second six months of the year.


Capital expenditure in the current year is projected to be lower than in the
previous year thus improving cash-flow.'





Enquiries:

Alun Lewis, Chief Executive

John Denman, Finance Director

James Cropper PLC

Tel: [phone]

Alan Cooke

Citigate Dewe Rogerson

Tel: [phone]