OXFORD BIOMEDICA PLC

Oxford BioMedica plc announced today that it has signed an additional agreement with Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rhone-Poulenc S.A. (NYSE.RP.), to expand the collaborative research study that began in January 1998. The collaboration uses Oxford BioMedica's novel lentiviral vector systems in Rhone-Poulenc Rorer's functional genomics programme. Rhone-Poulenc Rorer will exploit the ability of this new generation of vectors to transfer genes to certain non-dividing tissues. The extension of the programme will provide additional resources that are expected to accelerate the development of novel screening systems.

Professor Alan Kingsman, Oxford BioMedica's Chief Executive commented "As part of our strengthening relationship with Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, we are pleased that RPR has expanded their interaction with us on the LentivectorT technology. This emphasises the importance of our new gene delivery systems to RPR and to others."

Notes to Editors 1. Oxford BioMedica: Established in 1995, specialises in the development and application of gene-based therapeutics using advanced gene delivery technologies for the treatment of disease in the areas of Oncology, Viral Infection, Neurobiology, Cardiovascular Disease and Genetic Deficiency. Oxford BioMedica plc was floated on the UK Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange in December 1996. 2. Rhone-Poulenc Rorer is a global pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving human health. Rhone-Poulenc S.A. (NYSE:RP) is a leading life sciences company, growing through innovations in human, plant and animal health and through its specialty chemicals subsidiary, Rhodia. With sales in 1998 of FF86.8 billion (US$ 14.8 billion; Euros 13.232 billion), the company employs 65,000 people in 160 companies worldwide. The RPR Internet web site is at http://www.rp-rorer.com.