July 18, 2006 — WIESBADEN — The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has cleared the proposed acquisition by Linde AG, Wiesbaden, of The BOC Group plc, Windlesham, UK.

The clearance is subject to certain divestitures to address FTC concerns relating to atmospheric gases and wholesale bulk liquid helium. As a condition to FTC clearance, Linde has agreed to divest eight air separation units in the United States. It has also agreed to divest three liquid helium purchase agreements with suppliers in the United States, Russia, and Poland, as well as associated assets. These divestitures correspond to a sales volume of approximately 180 million euro in the year ended December 31, 2005.

“We are pleased to confirm that each of the pre-conditions to the making of the Offer has now been satisfied,” said Prof. Wolfgang Reitzle, President and CEO of Linde AG. “This is a milestone on our way towards the merger with BOC. We will swiftly take the next steps to implement the transaction and look forward to our joint integration process with BOC.”

The Offer to the BOC shareholders will shortly be launched, by means of the posting of the scheme document. The consent of the High Court to the dispatch of the scheme document has been obtained. Completion of the Offer is expected in September 2006.

This announcement does not constitute an offer or invitation to purchase any securities. BOC shareholders are advised to read carefully the formal documentation in relation to the Offer once it has been dispatched.

CONTACT
Linde Gas LLC
6055 Rockside Woods Boulevard
Cleveland, OH 44131
www.us.lindegas.com