Gemplus International Replaces Sidel In Next 150 As Of 13 June 2001

Following the official result of the takeover bid by Tetra Laval SA for the French company Sidel, Sidel will be deleted from the Next 150 index with effect from Wednesday 13 June 2001, in accordance with rule 6.3.3 of the index ground rules.

The highest ranking non-constituent by market capitalisation as at the close of business 8 June 2001, replaces Sidel in the Next 150 index. Following ranking analysis, the French company Gemplus International will enter the Next 150 index effective Wednesday 13 June 2001.