Response to Press Report

Ladbrokes plc ("Ladbrokes")

Response to press speculation

The Board of Ladbrokes (the "Board") notes the announcement made today by Sportingbet plc ("Sportingbet" or "the Company") in response to recent speculation in the press.

The Board confirms that Ladbrokes has held highly preliminary conversations with Sportingbet. There can be no certainty that these preliminary discussions will lead to any offer being made for the Company.

Richard Glynn commented, "The Board has set out previously a clear organic strategy for Ladbrokes. We also stated that we would explore appropriate opportunities that may help us accelerate that process and bring benefits to our shareholders. These talks should be seen in that context and are highly preliminary."

Further announcements will be made as appropriate.

For further enquiries, please contact:

Brian Wallace (Finance Director) Tel: +44 (0) 208 515 5728

Matt Sharff (Head of Investor Relations) Tel: +44 (0) 7854 184 808

Ciaran O'Brien (Head of Public Relations) Tel: +44 (0) 7976 180 173