In Preliminary Discussions

RNS Number:6512N
Galen Holdings PLC
17 July 2003


For immediate release                                           17 July, 2003



                  Galen Holdings PLC ("Galen" or the "Company")


The Board of Galen Holdings PLC notes the recent rise in the Company's share
price.  The Company is currently in preliminary discussions which may or may not
lead to an offer for Galen Holdings PLC.  Shareholders are advised to take no
further action at this time.  A further announcement will be made in due course.



Enquiries:


Galen Holdings PLC                             Telephone: [phone]
David Kelly

Hoare Govett                                   Telephone: [phone]

Andrew Chapman

Credit Suisse First Boston                     Telephone: [phone]

Andrew Christie

Financial Dynamics                             Telephone : [phone]

Andrew Dowler



Rule 8 notices



Any person who, alone or acting together with any other person(s) pursuant to
any agreement or any understanding (whether formal or informal) to acquire or
control securities of Galen Holdings plc, owns or controls, or becomes the owner
or controller, directly or indirectly, of one per cent or more of any class of
securities of Galen Holdings plc, is generally required under the provisions of
Rule 8 of The City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the "Code") to notify the
London Stock Exchange and the Panel on Takeovers and Mergers of every dealing in
such securities from and including today's date and throughout the offer period.
  Dealings by Galen Holdings plc and their respective "associates" (within the
meaning of the Code) in any class of securities of Galen Holdings plc during the
offer period must also be disclosed.  Please consult your financial adviser
immediately if you believe this Rule may be applicable to you.



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