FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

15 April 2003

Scipher plc

Appointment of new Non-executive Director

Scipher plc ("Scipher" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Daniel R
Chapchal has been appointed to the Scipher Board as a Non-executive Director
for three years, effective from 14 April 2003.

Danny has extensive experience in the management and commercial development of
leading technology companies. He is Chief Executive of the digital security and
rights management company, BitArts Limited and is Chairman of several UK
technology companies including Camcon and Flying Null Limited, and is a
Director of the venture capital company, ACUS Management Partners Ltd. Previous
roles include Group Chief Executive of SQL Systems International, a leading
supplier of pre-press software and systems for the newspaper industry, and
Chief Executive of Integrierte Systeme Grafische Industrie GmbH (part of
Siemens).

One of Danny's key previous roles was as Chief Executive of CDT Holdings plc
(Cambridge Display Technology or "CDT"), the leading commercial developer of
light-emitting polymer (LEP) technology for application in electronic displays,
general lighting, and photovoltaic applications. While at CDT Danny established
a new business strategy, raised funding and negotiated significant licenses
with companies such as Seiko-Epson and Philips. During this time CDT was built
up from a valuation of �3 million and was sold three and a half years later for
�70 million.

Commenting on today's announcement, Dr Ken Gray, chairman of Scipher, said: "I
am very pleased that Danny has agreed to join the Scipher board. He has vast
relevant experience in licensing and commercialising technology, particularly
in the field of displays, and he is a leading member of the venture capital
community. He will be invaluable to us in the development and execution of our
business strategy."

Enquiries:

Scipher plc:

Dr Ken Gray, Chairman Tel: 020 8848 6555

Chris Mutter, Finance Director Tel: 020 8848 6555

Financial Dynamics:

James Melville-Ross Tel: 020 7831 3113

Juliet Clarke Tel: 020 7831 3113



END