Statement re Shortlisting for ScotRail franchise

FIRSTGROUP PLC (`FirstGroup' or `the Group') Statement re: SHORTLISTING FOR SCOTRAIL FRANCHISE COMPETITION FirstGroup has been shortlisted for the ScotRail franchise competition by theScottish Government. The Group currently operates the franchise which providespassenger train services throughout Scotland. The new ten year contract, with apotential break point after five years, will be awarded next year and isexpected to start in April 2015. Commenting, Vernon Barker, FirstGroup's Managing Director, UK Rail said: "We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the ScotRail franchisecompetition. "As a Scottish company, we are proud to run Scotland's railway and proud of oursuccess in growing the business. First ScotRail now carries 83 millionpassengers a year, 30% more than in 2004, and has introduced 300 more servicesper day, whilst seeing record high customer satisfaction scores. We also holdthe title of Scottish Public Transport Operator of the Year. "The railway is integral to Scotland's growing and ambitious economy and welook forward to submitting a compelling, competitive and value for money bidwhich meets the needs of customers, businesses and taxpayers. We havedemonstrated that we have the capability and commitment to meet that challengeand deliver for the people of Scotland." Further information, FirstGroup:Stuart Butchers, Group Corporate Communications ManagerTel: +44 7713 317979 / 020 7291 0507