Further to today's earlier announcement confirming the appointment of António Horta-Osório, as the Chief Executive of Lloyds Banking Group plc, the Board of Directors of Santander UK plc ("Santander UK") have resolved to approve the appointment of Ana Patricia Botín as Chief Executive.

Ana Patricia Botín, until now, Executive Chair of Banesto, will take office as Chief Executive of Santander UK, subject to the receipt of FSA approval.

Ana Patricia Botín has a long track record in the financial industry. After seven years in JP Morgan, in 1988 she joined Banco Santander, where she has had several roles, actively participating in the Group's international expansion. Since 2002, she has been Executive Chair of Banesto. Ana Patricia Botín is a member of Banco Santander's Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.

Lord Burns, Chairman of Santander UK plc, said: "We are delighted that Ana Patricia will be joining us as Chief Executive. Her appointment demonstrates how important the UK is to Santander and I am sure she will make a significant contribution to meeting the next phase of what has been a very successful entry into the UK market."

A further confirmatory announcement confirming the effective date of the above change will be made once all regulatory approvals have been given.

For further details, please contact:

Anthony Frost (Head of Corporate Communications)
020 7756 5536