RNS Number:4753J
Laurel Pub Company Limited
01 April 2003


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                             1 April, 2003


  NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OF
                      AMERICA, CANADA, AUSTRALIA OR JAPAN


                     SIX CONTINENTS PLC ("SIX CONTINENTS")


The Board of The Laurel Pub Company Ltd ("Laurel") has noted the recent press
speculation surrounding a possible offer for all or parts of the pubs division
of Six Continents by Laurel.

Laurel reviews all opportunities that arise and continues to review the
developing situation at Mitchells & Butlers as part of that ongoing work.
Laurel has not made any proposal to the Board of Six Continents and there is no
certainty that any proposal will be made.



Enquiries:

Laurel                                                       Tel:  01582 693545
Ian Payne


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