Global Capital Markets

A consultation paper regarding the dematerialisation of UK and Ireland Securities was available from 6 April 2006.The paper outlines the following proposals:- Shareholders to remain on the share register and receive voting options; - Proposed introduction of paper-free settlement for all share transactions; - AGM/EGM invitations and annual reports to be issued electronically.Please note that the closing date for the submission of response forms is 30 June 2006. In addition written comments can be sent to the following address:Dematerialisation, ICSA, 16 Park Crescent, London, W1B 1AH. A copy of the consultation paper can be obtained now via the following website: www.icsa.org.uk/demat.