Vodafone Group Plc ("Vodafone") announces that the proposed merger of J-Phone Communications Co. Ltd., J-Phone East Co. Ltd., J-Phone Central Co. Ltd., and J-Phone West Co. Ltd., that was announced on 24 August, 2001 has now been approved by shareholders at the respective EGMs of the companies in Japan today. 

Subject to regulatory clearance, the merger will become effective on 1 November 2001. 

Vodafone's direct ownership in the new company, J-Phone Co., Ltd will be 39.67% and its economic interest will beapproximately 60% after taking into account Vodafone's indirect interest through its 45% stake in JAPAN TELECOM.

For further information contact:

Vodafone Group Plc
Tim Brown, Group Corporate Affairs Director
Melissa Stimpson, Head of Group Investor Relations
Darren Jones, Senior Investor Relations Manager
Jon Earl, Investor Relations Manager
Tel: +44 (0) 1635 673 310

Tavistock Communications
Lulu Bridges/John West
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7600 2288