21 February 2003

FLUOROGAS CONTRACT CASE

BOC was notified this morning that a jury verdict in the United States District
Court for the Western District of Texas was obtained for USD132 million against
Fluorogas Limited, The BOC Group Inc. and The BOC Group plc. The verdict arises
primarily out of an alleged breach of a memorandum of understanding by
Fluorogas Limited before it was acquired by The BOC Group plc in September
2001. The issue was identified during due diligence and it was considered that
the potential liability, if any, was likely to be insignificant. The jury has
returned a verdict but the judge has still to review this before entering a
judgement, which may lead to a variation to the verdict.

BOC has faith in the jury system but believes the jury's verdict reflects a
misunderstanding of the law and does not reflect the facts or any loss that may
have been suffered by the plaintiffs. BOC believes it has substantial merit in
its case. It will file all appropriate post trial motions with the trial court
and if necessary appeal to the United States Court of Appeals.

The annual turnover of Fluorogas Limited was approximately GBP1 million.

Contact:        Christopher Marsay, Group Manager - Investor Relations         
                                                                               
                Tel: 01276 477222 (International +44 1276 477222)              



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