AGM Statement

7 Oct 2005 10:30

Abbey PLC07 October 2005 ABBEY PLC CHAIRMAN'S REMARKS TO SHAREHOLDERS AT AGM ABBEY CURRENT TRADING Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the 68th Annual General Meeting of Abbey plc.Before commencing the formalities this morning, I wish to make a brief statementabout current trading. Trading in the early months of our new year is off to a solid start. New homesare continuing to sell steadily in both England and Ireland. In England a slightrise in seasonal levels of activity in July and August has not accelerated inSeptember. In Ireland the market continues to be robust and our projects are selling wellthroughout Leinster. Our next two launches will be in Rockfield Road, Kells, Co Meath and StationRoad, Portarlington, Co Laois. The schemes are both developments of 3, 4 and 5bedroom semi and detached homes. Construction is underway on both projects andwe are already experiencing a very positive response. Overall the Group is in a strong position and optimistic for the future. Charles H Gallagher Executive Chairman Date: 7th October 2005 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange