RNS Number:4972Q
Abbey PLC
03 October 2003


                                   ABBEY PLC


                   CHAIRMAN'S REMARKS TO SHAREHOLDERS AT AGM


                             ABBEY CURRENT TRADING


Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the 66th Annual General Meeting of Abbey plc.
Before commencing the formalities this morning, I wish to make a brief statement
about current trading.


Business in the first few months of the new year has continued at healthy
levels. Houses in both England and Ireland are selling well.


Our business in Ireland is particularly good this year and our recent launches
in Clonee, Ashbourne and Kilcullen have all gone well. Our next major launch
will be in Ratoath, Co Meath in January. Construction has already started and we
have high hopes for a successful scheme.


Overall the Group is in a strong position and prospects are good.

CHARLES H GALLAGHER
Executive Chairman


Date: 3 October, 2003



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