Interim Results 2006

UCM Group PLC

Interim Results for the Six Months Ended 30 June 2006

UCM, the leading provider of speciality fused minerals, today announces its
interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2006.

Financial Highlights

£ Millions                                       Six Months                            Six Month
                                                               Ended                                   Ended
                                                    30 June 2006                       30 June 2005

Revenue                                                    19.60                                  17.48
Profit before tax                                           1.35                                    1.16
Earnings per share                                      3.8p                                    3.3p
Interim dividend                                          1.0p*                                    2.0p

Key Highlights

Pre-tax profits up by 16% on a sales increase of 12%
Increase in sales of standard zirconia products
Magnesia division returned to profitability
Outline planning sought for residential development at the Stafford site
Resumption of dividend payments
Positive outlook for second half

John Gordon, Chairman, commented; “We have experienced an improvement in
our performance during the first half and I am delighted to report that we expect the
Group to perform well and remain profitable in the traditionally quieter second
half to December.”

*The interim dividend of 1.0p (net) per ordinary share will be paid on 26 October
2006 to shareholders on the register at 29^th September 2006.