Survey
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
Table of Contents SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, DC 20549 FORM 6-K REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-16 OR 15D-16 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the month of April 2008 Commission file number: 001-10533 Commission file number: 000-20122 Rio Tinto plc Rio Tinto Limited (Translation of registrant’s name into English) (Translation of registrant’s name into English) 5 Aldermanbury Square, London, EC2V 7HR, United Kingdom (Address of principal executive offices) Level 33, 120 Collins Street Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia (Address of principal executive offices) ABN 96 004 458 404 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F: Form 20-F Form 40-F Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes No If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82- TABLE OF CONTENTS EXHIBITS SIGNATURES EXHIBIT 99.1 EXHIBIT 99.2 EXHIBIT 99.3 EXHIBIT 99.4 EXHIBIT 99.5 EXHIBIT 99.6 EXHIBIT 99.7 EXHIBIT 99.8 EXHIBIT 99.9 EXHIBIT 99.10 Table of Contents EXHIBITS 99.1 1 April 2008 Announcement of SEC filing: 2007 Form 20-F 99.2 7 April 2008 Capital project: Rio Tinto Alcan accelerates study of Alma smelter expansion project 99.3 16 April 2008 Quarterly operations review: First quarter 2008 operations review 99.4 16 April 2008 Capital disposal: Rio Tinto completes sale of Greens Creek Mine interest 99.5 17 April 2008 Rio Tinto plc AGM: Rio Tinto plc AGM 17 April 2008 99.6 17 April 2008 Rio Tinto plc AGM: Presentation slides 99.7 17 April 2008 Rio Tinto plc AGM voting: Rio Tinto plc results of voting at 2008 annual general meeting 99.8 18 April 2008 Capital project: Rio Tinto welcomes High Court decision on Shovelanna lease 99.9 24 April 2008 Rio Tinto Limited AGM: Rio Tinto Limited AGM 24 April 2008 99.10 24 April 2008 Rio Tinto Limited AGM voting: Results of Voting at 2008 Annual General Meetings of Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto Limited Table of Contents SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorised. Rio Tinto plc (Registrant) Rio Tinto Limited (Registrant) By Name By Name /s/ Ben Mathews Title Ben Mathews Secretary Date 16 May 2008 /s/ Ben Mathews Title Ben Mathews Assistant Secretary Date 16 May 2008 Exhibit 99.1 Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom T +44 (0) 20 7781 2000 F +44 (0) 20 7781 1800 Press release 2007 Form 20-F 1 April 2008 Rio Tinto yesterday filed its 2007 Annual report on Form 20-F with the SEC and today posted it to its web site at http://www.riotinto.com/investors/ADRs.asp . Shareholders may obtain a hard copy of the 2007 Annual report and the 2007 Full financial statements free of charge on request from the company secretaries, whose contact details are as follows: The Company Secretary Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom The Company Secretary Rio Tinto Limited 120 Collins Street Melbourne, 3000 Australia Exhibit 99.2 Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom T +44 (0) 20 7781 2000 F +44 (0) 20 7781 1800 Press release Rio Tinto Alcan accelerates study of Alma smelter expansion project – the next step in US$2 billion Quebec investment program 7 April 2008 Speaking today at a Canadian Club luncheon in Montreal, Quebec, Tom Albanese, chief executive of Rio Tinto, announced that Rio Tinto Alcan will proceed, on an accelerated basis, with a pre-feasibility study for an expansion of the Alma smelter in the Saguenay– Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec. The potential expansion would add approximately 170,000 tonnes to the current Alma smelter production of slightly more than 400,000 tonnes. “I am very pleased to announce another positive step along the way in our ten year, US$2 billion Quebec investment program,” said Mr. Albanese. “Rio Tinto intends to follow Alcan’s lead as a champion of Canada and Quebec and build upon its positive economic and social legacy by continuing with investments that will create value and opportunity.” Alma is one of Rio Tinto Alcan’s most modern and efficient smelters. The expanded smelter would have a capacity of approximately 570,000 tonnes and be one of the largest in North America. The study will evaluate the cost, timetable and conditions for completing the expansion, which is part of Rio Tinto Alcan’s Quebec investment program announced in December 2006. “Our objective is to complete the various feasibility studies on an accelerated basis,” said Jacynthe Côté, president and chief executive officer of the Rio Tinto Alcan Primary Metal business unit. “This is another important part of our investment strategy and a further demonstration of our ongoing commitment to the development of the Saguenay–Lac- Saint-Jean region.” AP50 pilot plant In addition to the proposed Alma expansion, Rio Tinto Alcan’s Quebec investment program includes the construction, with options for future expansion, of an AP50 pilot plant using the new generation of AP technology and powered exclusively by clean, renewable hydroelectricity. The pilot plant will serve as the platform for future development of the AP50 technology. Continues Page 2 of 4 Shipshaw power station The program also includes a recently announced US$130 million investment to construct a new 225-megawatt high-efficiency turbine at the Shipshaw power station. The new turbine will facilitate the more efficient use of water resources. The station is a key component of Rio Tinto Alcan’s extensive hydroelectric network, which has a total installed capacity of 2,687 megawatts in Quebec. The project is expected to be submitted to the Rio Tinto Board of Directors for final approval in the fourth quarter of 2008. Spent potlining treatment pilot plant Other investments in Quebec include US$225 million for the recently completed construction of a spent potlining treatment pilot plant. Pre-operational checks and precommissioning are underway at the facility, which will come on-line and begin ramping up this month, in keeping with the initial timetable. Community Investment Rio Tinto Alcan will maintain its significant community commitments by creating a foundation to be endowed with CDN$200 million over five years. This will ensure the continuation of significant activities such as the recently announced CDN$4 million contribution towards the building of the new Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium; the CDN$1 million donation to the Montreal Neurological Institute; donations totalling CDN$650,000 to the Chicoutimi and Alma hospital foundations, in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, along with numerous other engagements in Quebec. About Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Rio Tinto’s business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa. Continues Page 3 of 4 Forward-Looking Statements This announcement includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this announcement, including, without limitation, those regarding Rio Tinto’s financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including development plans and objectives relating to Rio Tinto’s products and production forecasts), are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Rio Tinto, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding Rio Tinto’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which Rio Tinto will operate in the future. Among the important factors that could cause Rio Tinto’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forwardlooking statements include, among others, levels of actual production during any period, levels of demand and market prices, the ability to produce and transport products profitably, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on market prices and operating costs, operational problems, political uncertainty and economic conditions in relevant areas of the world, the actions of competitors, activities by governmental authorities such as changes in taxation or regulation and such other risk factors identified in Rio Tinto’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) or Form 6-Ks furnished to the SEC. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking (except as required by applicable law, the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the “ Takeover Code ”), the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Rio Tinto’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily match or exceed its historical published earnings per share. Subject to the requirements of the Takeover Code, none of Rio Tinto, any of its officers or any person named in this announcement with their consent or any person involved in the preparation of this announcement makes any representation or warranty (either express or implied) or gives any assurance that the implied values, anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in forward-looking statements contained in this announcement will be achieved. Continues Page 4 of 4 For further information, please contact: Media Relations, London Christina Mills Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1154 Mobile: +44 (0) 7825 275 605 Media Relations, Australia Ian Head Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3620 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 360 101 Nick Cobban Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1138 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 041 003 Amanda Buckley Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3627 Mobile: +61 (0) 419 801 349 Rio Tinto Alcan Media Relations, Canada Stefano Bertolli Tel.: +1 514 848 8151 Rio Tinto Alcan Media Relations, Saguenay Claudine Gagnon Tel.: +1 418 699 4005 Media Relations, US Nancy Ives Mobile: +1 619 540 3751 Investor Relations, London Nigel Jones Office: +44 (0) 20 7753 2401 Mobile: +44 (0) 7917 227 365 Investor Relations, Australia Dave Skinner Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3628 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 335 309 David Ovington Office: +44 (0) 20 7753 2326 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 010 978 Simon Ellinor Office:+ 61 (0) 7 3867 1068 Mobile: +61 (0) 439 102 811 Investor Relations, North America Jason Combes Office: +1 (0) 801 685 4535 Mobile: +1 (0) 801 558 2645 Email: [email protected] Websites: www.riotinto.com www.riotinto.com/riotintoalcan Exhibit 99.3 Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom T +44 (0) 20 7781 2000 F +44 (0) 20 7781 1800 Press release First quarter 2008 operations review 16 April 2008 Commenting on the first quarter’s production results, chief executive Tom Albanese said: “Our expansion drive continues to pay off with a record-breaking first quarter for the iron ore and aluminium product groups. Markets remain very strong and the prices of many of our products are at record highs, bearing out our view that the US slowdown will have little effect on global metal and mineral supply and demand balances. “The integration of the Alcan acquisition is going well, and our investment assumptions for this business are already being exceeded. This year we expect to invest at record levels across the group in bringing new production onstream, so we can continue to benefit from economies undergoing rapid, metals intensive phases of development.” • Record first quarter global production of iron ore, up 16 per cent on the first quarter of 2007. • Record first quarter iron ore production of 43 million tonnes in the Pilbara, Western Australia, up 15 per cent (100 per cent basis) compared with the first quarter of 2007 as the iron ore operations deliver their rapid expansion programme. • Strong contribution from Rio Tinto Alcan in the quarter, with a significant uplift in production compared to the first quarter of 2007. Bauxite increased by 106 per cent, alumina by 236 per cent and aluminium by 386 per cent, following a good performance from the Canadian smelters. • On a proforma basis the respective increases for bauxite, alumina and aluminium were 20 per cent, ten per cent and two per cent. • Mined copper production declined by six per cent compared with the first quarter of 2007, primarily reflecting lower grades at Kennecott Utah Copper and Northparkes. • Australian thermal and coking coal production was affected by heavy rains, notably in Queensland where the coal industry generally suffered production and logistics disruption. • Uranium production was 20 per cent higher than the 2007 comparative period. • During the quarter Rio Tinto reached agreement on the first two sales under its planned programme to divest around $10 billion of assets in 2008. The sale of the Greens Creek silver, lead and zinc mine in Alaska for $750 million was announced and the sale of the Cortez gold mine in Nevada was completed for $1.695 billion. In addition, Rio Tinto will benefit from a deferred bonus payment in the event of a significant discovery of additional reserves and resources at the Cortez gold mine and will also retain a contingent royalty interest in future production. Funds from these sales will be used to pay down part of the debt raised to finance the Alcan acquisition. Cont.../ Continues Page 2 of 22 This quarterly report is published instead of any Interim Management Statement, in accordance with the requirements of rules 4.3.2 and 4.3.6 of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules. All currency figures in this report are US dollars unless otherwise stated IRON ORE Rio Tinto share of production (000 tonnes) Q1 08 Hamersley Hope Downs Robe River IOC (pellets and concentrate) 27,016 538 7,189 2,119 vs Q1 07 +13 % — +11 % +50 % vs Q4 07 -6 % +1587 % -5 % -6 % Conditions in the iron ore market remain extremely tight with demand continuing to grow strongly. Rio Tinto continued to negotiate with customers to establish the 2008 iron ore benchmark prices and obtain a freight premium, reflecting its proximity to major customers in Asia. During the first quarter Rio Tinto was actively selling iron ore into the spot market, as foreshadowed in its announcement of 18 December 2007. Production and rail tonnages both increased steadily during the quarter, helped by infrastructure debottlenecking and associated scheduling. Expanded rail yard capacity and the introduction of 40 new generation locos and new rolling stock will deliver increasing benefits during the year. Expansion projects continued to make strong progress, with the capacity upgrade of the Cape Lambert port from 55 million tonnes to 80 million tonnes per annum proceeding on track, despite challenging conditions from tropical cyclones. The feasibility study into increasing annual capacity in the Pilbara to 320 million tonnes is advancing according to plan. Hamersley, Hope Downs and Robe River Production from the Pilbara operations was severely affected by cyclonic activity during the quarter. In addition, a serious failure of gas supply in January led to immediate power shortages throughout Western Australia, which curtailed production and rail operations for several days. Despite these adverse conditions, record first quarter production and sales were achieved. Production for the quarter would have been in line with the fourth quarter 2007, but for these conditions. Hamersley’s record first quarter production was up 13 per cent on the corresponding quarter of 2007, following the ramp up of the Yandicoogina capacity expansion to 52 million tonnes per annum, and the brownfield expansions at Nammuldi and Tom Price in the West Pilbara. The Hope Downs mine produced over one million tonnes during the quarter (on a 100 per cent basis) as it started to ramp up towards its 30 million tonnes per annum capacity by early 2009. Robe River first quarter production was 11 per cent up on the previous corresponding period, reflecting improved production at Mesa J and West Angelas. Cont.../ Continues Page 3 of 22 HIsmelt HIsmelt has recorded limited production so far this year (18,073 tonnes) due to downtime for required maintenance. The opportunity to conduct trials has yielded strong signs that benefits from improvements will be realised, particularly to increase time in operation. Strong interest in the HIsmelt technology has been sustained and licence negotiations with several steelmakers are progressing. Iron Ore Company of Canada Strong production of pellets and concentrates at the Iron Ore Company of Canada reflected record mine performance for a first quarter and debottlenecking efforts at the plant, as well as the absence of labour stoppages in 2007. In March, Rio Tinto approved a US$475 million project to increase the Iron Ore Company of Canada’s annual production of concentrate to 22 million tonnes. The investment is the first phase of an expansion programme that may see production increase 50 per cent by 2011. ALUMINIUM Rio Tinto share of production (000 tonnes) Q1 08 Rio Tinto Alcan Bauxite Alumina Aluminium vs Q1 07 8,798 2,220 1,025 Q1 08 vs Q4 07 +106 % +236 % +386 % Q1 07 +13 % +20 % +23 % vs Q1 07 proforma Rio Tinto Alcan Bauxite Alumina Aluminium 1 8,798 2,220 1,025 7,350 2,017 1,004 2 proforma 1 +20 % +10 % +2 % 1 Includes Alcan data from 1 January 2007. 2 Excludes Vlissingen smelter (Netherlands,) which was divested in the first half of 2007. Production records were set across the board in the Aluminium product group. First quarter production of bauxite, alumina and aluminium increased sharply compared with the same quarter of 2007 following the Alcan acquisition. Rio Tinto acquired the operating assets of Alcan with effect from 24 October 2007 and its production is included from that date. Proforma Rio Tinto Alcan production data for 2007 was published on 12 March 2008 and can be found on the Rio Tinto website at www.riotinto.com/media/5157_7363.asp Bauxite First quarter bauxite production was 106 per cent higher than the first quarter of 2007 and 20 per cent higher on a proforma basis. First quarter bauxite production at Weipa was 17 per cent above the same quarter of 2007, reflecting increased capacity following the commissioning of the second shiploader. Alumina First quarter alumina production was 236 per cent higher than the first quarter of 2007 and ten per cent higher on a proforma basis. The Yarwun alumina refinery operated consistently at its rated capacity of 1.4 million tonnes per annum, increasing production by 17 per cent when compared with the first quarter of 2007 when maintenance shutdowns occurred. Cont.../ Continues Page 4 of 22 Expansion work on the Yarwun alumina refinery is progressing on budget and on track for its first shipment of alumina in the second half of 2010. The US$1.8 billion project, announced in July 2007, will more than double annual production of the refinery, taking output from 1.4 million tonnes to 3.4 million tonnes by 2011. Construction of the 1.8 million tonne per annum expansion of the Gove refinery is nearing completion. Production during the first quarter of 2008 reflected stabilisation of the newly commissioned plant. Full capacity is anticipated to be achieved during 2009. Aluminium First quarter aluminium production was 386 per cent higher than the first quarter of 2007 and two per cent higher on a like for like basis. All the Rio Tinto Alcan smelters operated well throughout the quarter with the Canadian smelters raising production by four per cent compared with the proforma first quarter 2007 levels. COPPER Rio Tinto share of production Q1 08 Kennecott Utah Copper Mined copper (000 tonnes) Refined copper (000 tonnes) Molybdenum (000 tonnes) Mined gold (000 ozs) Refined gold (000 ozs) Escondida Mined copper (000 tonnes) Refined copper (000 tonnes) Grasberg JV Mined copper (000 tonnes) Mined gold (000 ozs) vs Q1 07 vs Q4 07 44.7 52.1 3.4 69 81 -17 % -25 % -27 % -36 % -30 % -16 % -12 % +15 % -24 % -39 % 117.2 15.7 +5 % -21 % +13 % -1 % 6.9 0 +20 % -100 % -26 % -100 % Kennecott Utah Copper With the exception of molybdenum, metals’ head grades for the first quarter of 2008 were lower than those of the fourth quarter of 2007 and all metal head grades were lower than the first quarter of 2007. In addition, the processing of harder ore decreased throughput and increased maintenance at the concentrator. Grades at Bingham Canyon are expected to remain relatively low during the first half of 2008 but are anticipated to return to more normal levels during the second half. Production decreases at the smelter and refinery, from 2007 to 2008, are attributable to lower head grades and concentrate production, resulting in the depletion of concentrate inventory in late 2007. A 26 day refinery shutdown is scheduled for July 2008 and an 11 day smelter maintenance shutdown is scheduled for August 2008. Escondida Mined copper for the quarter improved by five per cent compared with the corresponding period of 2007, attributable to higher copper grades for the leachate material. Refined copper production in the first quarter of 2008 was 21 per cent lower than the prior year due to low oxide leach production. Grasberg Lower copper and gold grades were a major factor in lowering Rio Tinto’s share of copper production and reducing its share of gold production to nil in the first quarter of 2008, compared with the fourth quarter of 2007. Cont.../ Continues Page 5 of 22 Mining is expected to continue in a relatively low-grade section of the Grasberg open pit in the first half of 2008 and a higher-grade section in the second half of 2008. Gold and silver volumes for 2008 are expected to be below the metal strip in 2008. Other operations Lower copper and gold production at Northparkes was due to the treatment of lower grade open cut stockpile material. Grade is expected to increase as the underground production from E26 Lift 2 North ramps up to full production, displacing the lower grade open cut material. Northparkes production for 2008 is expected to be more than 40 per cent below 2007. DIAMONDS Rio Tinto share of production (000 carats) Q1 08 Argyle Diavik 2,172 1,071 Q1 vs 07 Q4 -37 % -31 % vs 07 -64 % -39 % Production at Argyle in the first quarter of 2008 was adversely affected by wet weather and a slip in the main pit access ramp that together restricted access to high grade ore zones. Pit access has been re-established and production is expected to improve as the wet season comes to an end. Variability in feed grades and production rates will continue as the open-pit approaches the end of its life and the mine transitions to an underground operation. At Diavik, the quantities of ore processed and carats recovered in the first quarter of 2008 were 31 per cent lower than 2007. Extreme cold temperatures experienced between January and the first half of March negatively impacted equipment reliability resulting in lower ore recovered and processed. A decrease in grade which commenced in the fourth quarter of 2007 continued throughout the first quarter of 2008. ENERGY US thermal coal Rio Tinto share of production (000 tonnes) Rio Tinto Energy America Q1 08 vs Q1 07 vs Q4 07 30,632 +1% -8% First quarter production was lower than the preceding quarter, but rose slightly above the same quarter of 2007, as expansion projects at the Spring Creek and Antelope mines neared completion, offsetting lower production at Jacobs Ranch and Colowyo. Australian coal Rio Tinto share of production (000 tonnes) Q1 08 Rio Tinto Coal Australia Hard coking coal Other coal 1,043 5,711 vs Q1 07 vs Q4 07 -27 % -19 % -32 % +1 % Central Queensland coal operations suffered from the heavy rains during the quarter, and the consequent flooding disrupted production and transportation, particularly at Hail Cont.../ Continues Page 6 of 22 Creek. Shipping opportunities were maximised at Blair Athol, which was not directly affected by the Queensland floods, with an eight per cent increase in production. Overall, the Rio Tinto coal operations in Queensland were able to maximise opportunities from the recent floods by buying and swapping rail and port allotments from other, worse impacted producers. In New South Wales, reduced port throughput from coal chain infrastructure limitations continued to restrict output from Rio Tinto subsidiary Coal & Allied’s mines. An investment programme by the owners and operators of the coal ports at Newcastle and Dalrymple Bay on the eastern seaboard of Australia is expected to increase capacity in the second half of 2008 and into 2009. Rio Tinto sold its 100 per cent share in the Tarong Coal mine in Queensland with an effective date of 31 January 2008 and production data are shown up to that date. Uranium Rio Tinto share of production (000 lbs) Q1 08 Energy Resources of Australia Rössing 2,011 1,335 vs Q1 07 +33 % +3 % vs Q4 07 -12 % +10 % First quarter 2008 production at ERA’s Ranger mine was 33 per cent higher than the comparative quarter of 2007 when exceptionally high rainfall was experienced. This rainfall event also impacted 2007 throughput, and ERA entered the 2008 wet season with lower than normal high grade stockpiles. This gave rise to a 12 per cent reduction in production in the first quarter of 2008 compared with the fourth quarter of 2007. Higher grades at Rössing led to a three per cent improvement in production in the first quarter of 2008 compared with the same quarter of 2007. MINERALS Rio Tinto share of production (000 tonnes) Q1 08 Borates Titanium dioxide feedstocks 153 356 vs Q1 07 vs Q4 07 +18 % +1 % +1 % -7 % First quarter borates production rose by 18 percent compared with the same quarter of 2007, driven by strong demand in Asia Pacific and Europe. EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION Pre-tax expenditure on exploration and evaluation charged to the profit and loss account in the first quarter of 2008 was $159 million compared with $72 million in same period of 2007. Pre-feasibility or feasibility work progressed on a number of important projects including Resolution (copper/gold, US), La Granja (copper, Peru), Eagle (nickel/copper, US), Potasio Rio Colorado (potash, Argentina), Simandou (iron ore, Guinea) and several Pilbara iron ore deposits. Cont.../ Continues Page 7 of 22 A summary of activity for the period is as follows: Product Group Advanced projects Aluminium Greenfield programmes Brazil, Colombia, Australia Copper and Diamonds Sulawesi nickel, Indonesia: Contract of Work negotiations progressing Lakeview nickel-copper, US: Order of magnitude study initiated Bunder diamonds, India: Order of magnitude study continued Chile: two joint ventures signed with CODELCO Copper and Nickel programmes continued in: Russia (Rio Nor JV), Kazakhstan, US, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, southern and central Africa; Diamond programmes continued in: India, Canada, Russia and Mauritania Remaining interest in Corani, Peru was divested. Energy & Minerals Huren Gol coal, Mongolia and Landazuri coal, Colombia: coal measures intersected in drilling; Chilubane and Mutamba ilmenite Mozambique; Jadar lithium borates, Serbia: order of magnitude studies continued Colombia, Canada, US, southern Africa, Argentina, Russia and Mongolia (coal) Australia, Canada, Turkey, Serbia (industrial minerals) Zambia (Uranium) Iron Ore Pilbara, Australia: delineation drilling continued at several advanced prospects Brazil, Argentina, Guinea, and Gabon Mine-lease exploration continued at a number of Rio Tinto businesses including Kennecott Utah Copper, Northparkes, Rössing, Argyle, Diavik and Pilbara Iron. About Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed public company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is a public company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Rio Tinto’s business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this announcement, including, without limitation, those regarding Rio Tinto’s financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including development plans and objectives relating to Rio Tinto’s products, production forecasts and reserve and resource positions), are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or Cont.../ Continues Page 8 of 22 achievements of Rio Tinto, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding Rio Tinto’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which Rio Tinto will operate in the future. Among the important factors that could cause Rio Tinto’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among others, levels of actual production during any period, levels of demand and market prices, the ability to produce and transport products profitably, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on market prices and operating costs, operational problems, political uncertainty and economic conditions in relevant areas of the world, the actions of competitors, activities by governmental authorities such as changes in taxation or regulation and such other risk factors identified in Rio Tinto’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) or Form 6-Ks furnished to the SEC. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking (except as required by applicable law, the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the “ Takeover Code ”), the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Rio Tinto’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily match or exceed its historical published earnings per share. Subject to the requirements of the Takeover Code, none of Rio Tinto, any of its officers or any person named in this announcement with their consent or any person involved in the preparation of this announcement makes any representation or warranty (either express or implied) or gives any assurance that the implied values, anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in forward-looking statements contained in this announcement will be achieved. Cont.../ Continues Page 9 of 22 For further information, please contact: Media Relations, Australia Amanda Buckley Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3627 Mobile: +61 (0) 419 801 349 Ian Head Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3620 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 360 101 Media Relations, London Christina Mills Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1154 Mobile: +44 (0) 7825 275 605 Nick Cobban Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1138 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 041 003 Media Relations, Americas Nancy Ives Mobile: +1 619 540 3751 Investor Relations, Australia Dave Skinner Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3628 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 335 309 Investor Relations, London Nigel Jones Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2049 Mobile: +44 (0) 7917 227365 Simon Ellinor Office: +61 (0) 7 3867 1607 Mobile: +61 (0) 439 102 811 David Ovington Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2051 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 010 978 Investor Relations, North America Jason Combes Office: +1 (0) 801 685 4535 Mobile: +1 (0) 801 558 2645 Email: [email protected] Website: www.riotinto.com High resolution photographs available at: www.newscast.co.uk Rio Tinto production summary 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 — — — 365 — 296 — — — — 362 — 323 — — — — 377 — 301 — 21 405 252 662 29 339 144 21 554 327 756 38 348 176 21 405 252 1,766 29 1,260 144 661 685 679 1,853 2,220 3,877 100 % 59 % 52 % 43.6 80.2 — 44.1 81.6 — 44.7 81.1 — 44.6 82.4 50.2 44.0 81.9 65.7 176.9 325.3 50.2 47 % — — — 8.8 9.4 8.8 100 % 40 % 25 % — — — — — — — — — 270.5 43.5 20.1 360.1 56.9 25.2 270.5 43.5 20.1 50 % — — — 15.5 20.3 15.5 100 % 100 % — — — — — — 79.7 35.0 101.7 46.2 79.7 35.0 79 % 68.7 69.4 70.3 70.3 69.1 278.7 50 % 100 % 51 % 100 % — — 18.4 — — — 18.7 — — — 18.8 — 16.0 41.6 18.8 36.8 21.4 55.3 18.7 48.9 16.0 41.6 74.7 36.8 210.9 213.8 214.9 833.7 1,024.9 1,473.2 — — — — 4,272 — — — — 4,278 — — — — 4,676 173 1,248 985 407 4,984 205 1,770 1,327 491 5,005 173 1,248 985 407 18,209 4,272 4,278 4,676 7,797 8,798 21,022 100 % 129 145 134 151 153 560 82 % 80 % 1,124 314 1,032 601 864 700 1,090 454 663 380 4,110 2,069 1,438 1,633 1,564 1,544 1,043 6,179 Rio Tinto interest ALUMINA Production (‘000 tonnes) Gardanne (a) Gove (a) Jonquiere (a) Queensland Alumina (a) (b) Sao Luis (Alumar) (a) Yarwun Speciality alumina plants (a) 100 % 100 % 100 % 80 % 10 % 100 % 100 % Rio Tinto total alumina production ALUMINIUM (c) Refined production (‘000 tonnes) Australia — Bell Bay Australia — Boyne Island Australia — Tomago (a) Cameroon — Alucam (Edea) (a) Canada — seven wholly owned (a) Canada — Alouette (a) Canada — Becancour (a) China — Ningxia (Qingtongxia) (a) France — three wholly owned (a) Iceland — ISAL (Reykjavik) (a) New Zealand — Tiwai Point (a) Norway — SORAL (Husnes) (a) UK — two wholly owned (a) UK — Anglesey USA — Sebree (a) Rio Tinto total aluminium production BAUXITE Production (‘000 tonnes) Awaso (a) (d) Sangaredi (a) Gove (a) Porto Trombetas (a) Weipa (f) 80 % (e ) 100 % 12 % 100 % Rio Tinto total bauxite production BORATES Production (‘000 tonnes B 2 O 3 content) Rio Tinto Minerals — borates COAL — HARD COKING Rio Tinto Coal Australia (‘000 tonnes) Hail Creek Coal Kestrel Coal Rio Tinto total hard coking coal production COAL — OTHER * Rio Tinto Coal Australia (‘000 tonnes) Bengalla Blair Athol Coal Hunter Valley Operations Kestrel Coal Mount Thorley Operations Tarong Coal (g) Warkworth 398 1,667 2,004 151 497 1,736 586 324 1,580 1,818 271 252 1,021 584 422 1,374 1,774 261 396 872 756 417 1,023 2,047 145 625 881 504 319 1,808 2,139 110 432 262 641 1,561 5,645 7,642 828 1,771 4,510 2,430 7,041 5,850 5,855 5,642 5,711 24,388 7,691 1,224 9,060 744 8,537 3,100 7,682 1,342 9,034 784 8,478 2,999 7,601 1,280 8,622 833 8,750 3,938 8,292 1,232 9,996 809 8,801 4,254 7,958 1,001 9,200 740 7,904 3,829 31,267 5,077 36,712 3,170 34,565 14,291 Total US coal 30,357 30,318 31,024 33,384 30,632 125,083 Rio Tinto total other coal production 37,398 36,169 36,878 39,025 36,342 149,471 30 % 71 % 76 % 80 % 61 % 0% 42 % Total Australian other coal Rio Tinto Energy America (‘000 tonnes) Antelope Colowyo Cordero Rojo Decker Jacobs Ranch Spring Creek 100 % (h ) 100 % 50 % 100 % 100 % Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal produced in concentrates or doré bullion irrespective of whether these products are then refined on-site. * Coal — other includes thermal coal and semi-soft coking coal. See footnotes on page 12. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 10 Rio Tinto share of production (continued) 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 54.1 111.5 5.8 13.7 13.0 55.6 105.2 5.6 9.9 10.2 49.5 101.2 7.5 5.6 8.7 53.0 103.8 9.4 5.3 9.3 44.7 117.2 6.9 4.1 12.8 212.2 421.6 28.4 34.5 41.2 198.1 186.5 172.5 180.8 185.6 737.9 19.9 69.7 12.0 19.7 67.9 13.2 16.1 68.7 13.8 15.8 59.3 13.8 15.7 52.1 10.5 71.5 265.6 52.9 101.6 100.7 98.7 89.0 78.3 390.0 3,470 1,551 12 4,414 1,975 24 4,865 1,874 31 5,995 1,766 46 2,172 1,071 52 18,744 7,166 113 5,033 6,413 6,770 7,807 3,296 26,023 2 106 45 14 74 11 20 3 3 3 117 61 14 97 11 17 3 3 3 86 53 14 149 13 12 2 3 2 88 55 14 103 12 13 2 3 2 67 29 12 0 11 8 2 2 11 397 215 56 423 48 63 10 11 278 327 335 293 133 1,233 100 % 115 147 128 133 81 523 100 % 460 424 528 365 508 1,777 100 % 60 % (k) 50 % 59 % 53 % 20,161 1,585 2,166 24,617 1,743 1,670 23,990 1,554 1,562 1,413 6,460 1,730 6,932 2,376 6,381 25,799 1,448 1,535 32 2,248 7,529 23,731 1,484 1,801 538 2,119 7,189 94,567 6,330 6,932 32 7,768 27,301 32,245 37,117 36,390 38,956 37,371 144,707 Rio Tinto interest COPPER Mine production (‘000 tonnes) Bingham Canyon Escondida Grasberg — Joint Venture (i) Northparkes Palabora 100 % 30 % 40 % 80 % 58 % Rio Tinto total mine production Refined production (‘000 tonnes) Escondida Kennecott Utah Copper Palabora 30 % 100 % 58 % Rio Tinto total refined production DIAMONDS Production (‘000 carats) Argyle Diavik Murowa 100 % 60 % 78 % Rio Tinto total diamond production GOLD Mine production (‘000 ounces) Barneys Canyon Bingham Canyon Cortez/Pipeline (j) Escondida Grasberg — Joint Venture (i) Greens Creek (j) Northparkes Rawhide Others 100 % 100 % 0% 30 % 40 % 70 % 80 % 51 % — Rio Tinto total mine production Refined production (‘000 ounces) Kennecott Utah Copper IRON ORE & IRON Production (‘000 tonnes) Corumbá Hamersley — six wholly owned mines Hamersley — Channar Hamersley — Eastern Range Hope Downs (l) Iron Ore Company of Canada Robe River Rio Tinto total mine production Pig iron production (‘000 tonnes) HIsmelt ® 60 % 13 0 29 27 11 69 LEAD Mine production (‘000 tonnes) Greens Creek (j) 70 % 2.9 2.8 3.3 3.0 2.8 11.9 MOLYBDENUM Mine production (‘000 tonnes) Bingham Canyon 100 % 4.7 3.8 3.5 3.0 3.4 14.9 SALT Production (‘000 tonnes) Rio Tinto Minerals — salt (m) 68 % 1,116 958 1,480 1,686 1,257 5,242 SILVER Mine production (‘000 ounces) Bingham Canyon Escondida Grasberg — Joint Venture (i) Greens Creek (j) Others 100 % 30 % 40 % 70 % — 856 563 0 1,666 187 981 592 114 1,627 166 757 670 210 1,607 127 892 536 154 1,175 121 616 494 0 1,172 74 3,487 2,361 477 6,075 602 3,272 3,480 3,371 2,878 2,356 13,002 870 1,014 1,164 1,317 929 4,365 Rio Tinto total mine production Refined production (‘000 ounces) Kennecott Utah Copper 100 % Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal produced in concentrates or doré bullion irrespective of whether these products are then refined on-site, except for the data for iron ore which represent production of saleable quantities of ore plus pellets. See footnotes on page 12. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 11 Rio Tinto share of production (continued) Rio Tinto interest 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 TALC Production (‘000 tonnes) Rio Tinto Minerals — talc 100 % 352 326 318 284 342 1,281 TITANIUM DIOXIDE FEEDSTOCK Production (‘000 tonnes) Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium 100 % 351 367 356 384 356 1,458 68 % 69 % 1,507 1,292 2,236 971 1,980 1,126 2,288 1,216 2,011 1,335 8,011 4,605 2,799 3,207 3,105 3,504 3,346 12,616 8.8 7.5 9.6 9.8 8.7 35.7 URANIUM Production (‘000 lbs U 3 O 6 ) Energy Resources of Australia Rössing Rio Tinto total uranium production ZINC Mine production (‘000 tonnes) Greens Creek (j) 70 % Production data notes (a) Rio Tinto acquired the operating assets of Alcan with effect from 24 October 2007; production is shown as from that date. The Rio Tinto assets and the Alcan assets have been combined under the Rio Tinto Alcan name. (b) Rio Tinto held a 38.6% share in QAL until 24 October 2007; this increased to 80.0% following the Alcan acquisition (c) Following a review of the basis for reporting aluminium smelter production tonnes, the data reported now reflects hot metal production rather than saleable product tonnes. (d) Rio Tinto Alcan has an 80% interest in the Awaso mine but purchases the additional 20% of production (e) Rio Tinto has a 22.9% shareholding in the Sangaredi mine but receives 45% of production under the partnership agreement. (f) Includes beneficiated and calcined bauxite production. (g) Rio Tinto sold its 100% share in Tarong with an effective date of 31 January 2008 and production data are shown up to that date. (h) In view of Rio Tinto Energy America’s responsibilities under a management agreement for the operation of the Colowyo mine, all of Colowyo’s output is included in Rio Tinto’s share of production. (i) Through a joint venture agreement with Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold (FCX), Rio Tinto is entitled to 40% of additional material mined as a consequence of expansions and developments of the Grasberg facilities since 1998. Rio Tinto’s share of production reflects actual production for the first quarter of 2008. (j) In February 2008 Rio Tinto reached agreement for the sale of Greens Creek and on 5 March 2008 the Group completed the sale of its interest in the Cortez joint venture to its partner. Cortez production data are shown up to that date. (k) Rio Tinto’s share of production includes 100% of the production from the Eastern Range mine. Under the terms of the joint venture agreement, Hamersley Iron manages the operation and is obliged to purchase all mine production from the joint venture. (l) Hope Downs started production in the fourth quarter of 2007 (m) Rio Tinto increased its shareholding in Rio Tinto Minerals — salt to 68.4% at the beginning of July 2007. Where Rio Tinto’s beneficial interest in an operation has changed, as indicated above, the share of production has been calculated using the weighted average interest over the relevant periods. Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 12 Rio Tinto production summary Rio Tinto share of production FULL YEAR QUARTER Principal Commodities 2007 Q1 2007 Q4 2008 Q1 2007 % CHANGE Q1 08 vs Q1 07 Q1 08 vs Q4 07 Alumina Aluminium Bauxite Borates Coal — hard coking coal Coal — other Australian Coal — US Copper — mined Copper — refined Diamonds Gold — mined Gold — refined Iron ore Titanium dioxide feedstock Uranium (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 cts) (‘000 ozs) (‘000 ozs) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 lbs) 661 210.9 4,272 129 1,438 7,041 30,357 198.1 101.6 5,033 278 115 32,245 351 2,799 1,853 833.7 7,797 151 1,544 5,642 33,384 180.8 89.0 7,807 293 133 38,956 384 3,504 2,220 1,024.9 8,798 153 1,043 5,711 30,632 185.6 78.3 3,296 133 81 37,371 356 3,346 3,877 1,473.2 21,022 560 6,179 24,388 125,083 737.9 390.0 26,023 1,233 523 144,707 1,458 12,616 236 % 386 % 106 % 18 % -27 % -19 % 1% -6 % -23 % -35 % -52 % -30 % 16 % 1% 20 % 20 % 23 % 13 % 1% -32 % 1% -8 % 3% -12 % -58 % -55 % -39 % -4 % -7 % -5 % Other Metals & Minerals Lead Molybdenum Pig Iron Salt Silver — mined Silver — refined Talc Zinc (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) (‘000 ozs) (‘000 ozs) (‘000 t) (‘000 t) 2.9 4.7 13 1,116 3,272 870 352 8.8 3.0 3.0 27 1,686 2,878 1,317 284 9.8 2.8 3.4 11 1,257 2,356 929 342 8.7 11.9 14.9 69 5,242 13,002 4,365 1,281 35.7 -5 % -27 % -16 % 13 % -28 % 7% -3 % -2 % -7 % 15 % -60 % -25 % -18 % -29 % 21 % -12 % Throughout this report, figures in italics indicate adjustments made since the figure was previously quoted on the equivalent page. Production figures are sometimes more precise than the rounded numbers shown, hence small differences may result between the total of the quarter figures and the full year figures. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 13 Rio Tinto operational data 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 100.0 % 100.0 % — 4,272 — 4,278 — 4,676 985 4,984 1,327 5,005 985 18,209 12.0 % — — — 3,392 4,093 3,392 80.0 % — — — 216 256 216 22.9 % — — — 2,774 3,934 2,774 4,263 4,157 4,774 6,682 6,787 19,877 100.0 % — — — 405 554 405 80.0 % 100.0 % 945 296 938 323 977 301 956 339 945 348 3,816 1,260 10.0 % — — — 288 379 288 100.0 % — — — 252 327 252 100.0 % — — — 21 21 21 100.0 % 100.0 % — — — — — — 3 22 4 31 3 22 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % — — — — — — — — — 6 102 5 7 116 9 6 102 5 100.0 % — — — 6 8 6 Rio Tinto interest Aluminium Rio Tinto Alcan (a) Bauxite Mines Bauxite production (‘000 tonnes) Australia Gove mine — Northern Territory (a) Weipa mine — Queensland (b) Brazil Porto Trombetas (MRN) mine (a) Ghana Awaso mine (a) (c) Guinea Sangaredi mine (a) (d) Rio Tinto Alcan share of bauxite shipments Share of bauxite shipments (‘000 tonnes) Smelter-Grade Alumina Refineries Alumina production (‘000 tonnes) Australia Gove refinery — Northern Territory (a) Queensland Alumina Refinery — Queensland (a) (e) Yarwun refinery — Queensland Brazil Sao Luis (Alumar) refinery (a) Canada Jonquiere refinery — Quebec (a) France Gardanne refinery (a) Specialty Alumina Plants Speciality alumina production (‘000 tonnes) Canada Brockville plant — Quebec (a) Jonquiere plant — Quebec (a) France Beyrede plant (a) Gardanne plant (a) La Bathie plant (a) Germany Teutschenthal plant (a) (a) Rio Tinto acquired the operating assets of Alcan with effect from 24 October 2007; production is shown as from that date. The Rio Tinto assets and the Alcan assets have been combined under the Rio Tinto Alcan name. (b) For Weipa, beneficiated and calcined production, previously shown separately, are now shown on one row (c) Rio Tinto Alcan has an 80% interest in the Awaso mine but purchases the additional 20% of production (d) Rio Tinto has a 22.9% shareholding in the Sangaredi mine but receives 45% of production under the partnership agreement. (e) Rio Tinto held a 38.6% share in QAL until 24 October 2007; this increased to 80.0% following the Alcan acquisition Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 14 Rio Tinto operational data 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 100.0 % 44 44 45 45 44 177 59.4 % 135 137 137 139 138 548 51.6 % — — — 97 127 97 46.7 % — — — 19 20 19 100.0 % — — — 80 107 80 40.0 % 100.0 % — — — — — — 109 32 142 42 109 32 100.0 % 25.1 % — — — — — — 10 80 13 101 10 80 100.0 % — — — 40 52 40 100.0 % 100.0 % — — — — — — 47 44 63 58 47 44 100.0 % — — — 18 25 18 50.0 % — — — 31 41 31 100.0 % 100.0 % — — — — — — 49 5 62 5 49 5 100.0 % — — — 25 34 25 100.0 % — — — 35 46 35 79.4 % 87 87 89 89 87 351 50.0 % — — — 32 43 32 51.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 36 — — 37 — — 37 — — 37 8 33 37 11 44 147 8 33 100.0 % — — — 37 49 37 196 226 211 1,031 1,287 1,663 Rio Tinto interest Aluminium (continued) Aluminium Smelters (a) Primary aluminium production (‘000 tonnes) Australia Bell Bay smelter — Tasmania Boyne Island smelter — Queensland Tomago smelter — New South Wales (b) Cameroon Alucam (Edea) smelter (b) Canada Alma smelter — Quebec (b) Alouette (Sept-Iles) smelter — Quebec (b) Arvida smelter — Quebec (b) Beauharnois, smelter — Quebec (b) Becancour smelter — Quebec (b) Grande-Baie smelter — Quebec (b) Kitimat smelter — British Colombia (b) Laterriere smelter — Quebec (b) Shawinigan smelter — Quebec (b) China Ningxia (Qingtongxia) smelter (b) France Dunkerque smelter (b) Lannemezan, smelter (b) St-Jean-de Maurienne smelter (b) Iceland ISAL (Reykjavik) smelter (b) New Zealand Tiwai Point smelter Norway SORAL (Husnes) smelter (b) United Kingdom Anglesey Aluminium smelter Lochaber smelter (b) Lynemouth smelter (b) USA Sebree smelter — Kentucky (b) Rio Tinto Alcan share of metal sales Share of primary aluminium sales (‘000 tonnes) a) Following a review of the basis for reporting aluminium smelter production tonnes, the data reported now reflects hot metal production rather than saleable product tonnes. b) Rio Tinto acquired the operating assets of Alcan with effect from 24 October 2007; production is shown as from that date. The Rio Tinto assets and the Alcan assets have been combined under the Rio Tinto Alcan name. Borates Rio Tinto Minerals — borates California, US and Argentina Borates (‘000 tonnes) (a) 100.0 % 129 145 134 151 153 560 (a) Production is expressed as B 2 O 3 content. Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 15 Rio Tinto operational data 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 1,315 1,070 1,394 1,376 1,053 5,155 2,341 2,218 1,929 1,436 2,538 7,924 1,371 1,259 1,054 1,329 808 5,012 2,316 2,020 1,883 2,046 2,143 8,264 331 381 460 657 683 1,830 189 392 339 751 326 875 181 567 138 475 1,035 2,586 657 280 261 731 382 1,929 163 137 393 302 332 995 1,736 1,021 872 881 262 4,510 1,343 1,172 1,663 1,197 1,522 5,376 51 216 133 0 1 400 Total hard coking coal production (‘000 tonnes) 1,763 2,010 1,929 1,896 1,284 7,598 Total hard coking coal sales (‘000 tonnes) 1,776 1,605 1,580 1,962 1,245 6,924 Total other coal production (‘000 tonnes) (b) 10,443 8,854 9,314 8,808 9,052 37,419 Total other coal sales (‘000 tonnes) (c) (d) 11,127 9,762 9,322 9,892 9,459 40,103 Total coal production (‘000 tonnes) 12,206 10,864 11,243 10,704 10,336 45,017 Total coal sales (‘000 tonnes) 12,903 11,368 10,902 11,854 10,703 47,026 Share of hard coking coal sales (‘000 tonnes) 1,447 1,306 1,285 1,600 1,015 5,639 Share of other coal sales (‘000 tonnes) (c) (d) 7,523 6,453 5,937 6,285 5,994 26,197 Rio Tinto interest Coal Rio Tinto Coal Australia Bengalla mine New South Wales, Australia Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Blair Athol Coal mine Queensland, Australia Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Hail Creek Coal mine Queensland, Australia Hard coking coal production (‘000 tonnes) Hunter Valley Operations New South Wales, Australia Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Semi-soft coking coal production (‘000 tonnes) Kestrel Coal mine Queensland, Australia Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Hard coking coal production (‘000 tonnes) Mount Thorley Operations New South Wales, Australia Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Semi-soft coking coal production (‘000 tonnes) Tarong Coal mine (a) Queensland, Australia Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Warkworth mine New South Wales, Australia Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Semi-soft coking coal production (‘000 tonnes) 30.3 % 71.2 % 82.0 % 75.7 % 80.0 % 60.6 % 0.0 % 42.1 % Rio Tinto Coal Australia share (a) Rio Tinto sold its 100% share in Tarong with an effective date of 31 January 2008 and production data are shown up to that date. (b) Other coal production includes thermal coal and semi-soft coking coal. (c) Other coal sales includes thermal coal, semi-soft coking coal and semi-hard coking coal (a mixture of thermal coal and coking coal). (d) Sales relate only to coal mined by the operations and exclude traded coal. Rio Tinto Energy America Antelope mine Wyoming, US 100.0 % Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Colowyo mine Colorado, US Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Cordero Rojo mine Wyoming, US Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Decker mine Montana, US Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Jacobs Ranch mine Wyoming, US Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) Spring Creek mine Montana, US Thermal coal production (‘000 tonnes) 7,691 7,682 7,601 8,292 7,958 31,267 1,224 1,342 1,280 1,232 1,001 5,077 9,060 9,034 8,622 9,996 9,200 36,712 1,488 1,568 1,666 1,618 1,480 6,340 8,537 8,478 8,750 8,801 7,904 34,565 3,100 2,999 3,938 4,254 3,829 14,291 Total coal production (‘000 tonnes) 31,101 31,103 31,857 34,192 31,372 128,253 Total coal sales (‘000 tonnes) 31,101 31,103 32,165 33,891 31,393 128,260 (a ) 100.0 % 50.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % (a) In view of Rio Tinto Energy America’s responsibilities under a management agreement for the operation of the Colowyo mine, all of Colowyo’s output is included in Rio Tinto’s share of production. Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 16 Rio Tinto operational data Rio Tinto interest 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 23,450 1.62 23,064 1.58 22,406 1.63 21,777 1.72 22,029 1.56 90,697 1.64 319.1 305.6 305.2 316.8 284.7 1,246.7 45 48 48 45 39 187 1,877 1,973 2,234 1,786 1,647 7,870 15,509 0.34 8,435 0.53 7,329 0.44 3,723 0.78 19,156 0.55 34,996 0.45 52 45 32 29 106 159 66 66 54 53 52 238 20,563 19,568 18,267 19,195 16,648 77,593 1.21 2.01 4.75 0.82 1.63 3.56 0.58 0.70 2.91 0.65 0.52 2.77 0.67 0.37 2.23 0.82 1.24 3.53 225.6 145.9 90.8 107.1 95.7 569.4 1,182 916 336 254 149 2,689 2,273 1,397 693 875 663 5,238 194.2 157.4 96.9 91.5 94.0 540.0 1,010 1,571 978 1,202 383 598 220 585 155 545 2,591 3,957 Copper and gold Escondida Chile Sulphide ore to concentrator (‘000 tonnes) Average copper grade (%) Mill production (metals in concentrates): Contained copper (‘000 tonnes) Contained gold (‘000 ounces) Contained silver (‘000 ounces) Ore to leach (‘000 tonnes) (a) Average copper grade (%) Contained copper in leachate/mined material (‘000 tonnes) Refined production from leach plants: Copper cathode production (‘000 tonnes) Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Grasberg mine (a) Papua, Indonesia Ore treated (‘000 tonnes) Average mill head grades: Copper (%) Gold (g/t) Silver (g/t) Production of metals in concentrates: Copper in concentrates (‘000 tonnes) Gold in concentrates (‘000 ounces) Silver in concentrates (‘000 ounces) Sales of payable metals in concentrates: (b) Copper in concentrates (‘000 tonnes) Gold in concentrates (‘000 ounces) Silver in concentrates 30.0 % 0.0%(40.0% of the expansion) (‘000 ounces) (a) Through a joint venture agreement with Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold (FCX), Rio Tinto is entitled to 40% of additional material mined as a consequence of expansions and developments of the Grasberg facilities since 1998. The 1Q 2008 results show the forecast from FCX’s most recent five-year plan because FCX is not releasing its actual 100% operating data for 1Q 2008 until the release of its 2008 first-quarter results on April 23, 2008. (b) Net of smelter deductions. Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 17 Rio Tinto operational data Rio Tinto interest 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 763 11,007 697 5,956 914 4,775 648 8,510 491 1,839 3,023 30,248 — — — — — — 2.49 0.52 — 2.80 0.51 — 2.83 0.50 — 4.18 0.50 — 3.40 0.50 — 3.02 0.51 — 113 154 134 138 72 538 166 148 178 172 153 664 4.44 562 9.5 3.6 4.57 624 9.1 3.8 4.85 533 9.6 3.7 4.86 416 10.3 3.5 5.20 465 10.3 3.7 4.69 530 9.7 3.6 16 2,371 12.5 4.2 15 2,316 10.6 3.9 19 2,287 13.7 4.6 18 1,672 13.9 4.3 16 1,668 12.3 4.0 68 8,646 50.8 17.0 5 51 6 54 4 34 4 21 3 26 19 160 Copper and gold (continued) Kennecott Minerals Company Cortez/Pipeline mine (a) 0.0 % Nevada, US Ore treated Milled (‘000 tonnes) Leached (‘000 tonnes) Sold for roasting (‘000 tonnes) Average ore grade: gold Milled (g/t) Leached (g/t) Sold for roasting (g/t) Gold produced (‘000 ounces) Greens Creek mine (a) Alaska, US Ore treated (‘000 tonnes) Average ore grades: Gold (g/t) Silver (g/t) Zinc (%) Lead (%) Metals produced in concentrates: Gold (‘000 ounces) Silver (‘000 ounces) Zinc (‘000 tonnes) Lead (‘000 tonnes) 70.3 % Rawhide mine (b) Nevada, US Metals produced in doré: Gold (‘000 ounces) Silver (‘000 ounces) 51.0 % (a) In February 2008 Rio Tinto reached agreement for the sale of Greens Creek and on 5 March 2008 the Group completed the sale of its interest in the joint venture to its Cortez partner. Cortez production data are shown up to that date. (b) Mining operations were completed in October 2002 and processing of stockpiled ores was completed in May 2003. Residual gold and silver production continues from the leach pads. Kennecott Utah Copper Barneys Canyon mine (a) Utah, US Gold produced (‘000 ounces) 100.0 % 2 3 3 (a) Mining operations ceased in the first quarter of 2002. Gold continues to be recovered from leach pads. 2 2 11 Bingham Canyon mine Utah, US Ore treated (‘000 tonnes) Average ore grade: Copper (%) Gold (g/t) Silver (g/t) Molybdenum (%) Copper concentrates produced (‘000 tonnes) Average concentrate grade (% Cu) Production of metals in copper concentrates: Copper (‘000 tonnes) (b) Gold (‘000 ounces) Silver (‘000 ounces) Molybdenum concentrates produced (‘000 tonnes): Molybdenum in concentrates (‘000 tonnes) Kennecott smelter & refinery Copper concentrates smelted (‘000 tonnes) Copper anodes produced (‘000 tonnes) (c) Production of refined metal: Copper (‘000 tonnes) Gold (‘000 ounces) (d) Silver (‘000 ounces) (d) 100.0 % 11,922 12,499 10,988 12,116 10,867 47,525 0.56 0.43 3.14 0.056 0.53 0.42 3.07 0.050 0.52 0.36 2.87 0.050 0.51 0.31 2.93 0.043 0.49 0.30 2.43 0.050 0.53 0.38 3.00 0.050 202 234 222 230 193 889 26.7 23.6 22.2 23.0 23.0 23.8 54.1 106 856 55.6 117 981 49.5 86 757 53.0 88 892 44.7 67 616 212.2 397 3,487 8.3 6.7 6.2 5.4 6.2 26.6 4.7 3.8 3.5 3.0 3.4 14.9 272 297 263 272 237 1,103 69.0 73.7 61.8 56.7 49.7 261.2 69.7 115 870 67.9 147 1,014 68.7 128 1,164 59.3 133 1,317 52.1 81 929 265.6 523 4,365 100.0 % (b) Includes a small amount of copper in precipitates. (c) New metal excluding recycled material. (d) Includes gold and silver in intermediate products. Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 18 Rio Tinto operational data FULL Rio Tinto 1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 1Q YEAR interest 2007 2007 2007 2007 2008 2007 1,367 1,363 1,264 1,304 1,234 5,297 1.38 0.78 1.01 0.67 0.65 0.50 0.59 0.51 0.49 0.35 0.91 0.62 Copper concentrates produced (‘000 tonnes) 42.2 32.4 21.4 19.6 16.1 115.7 Contained copper in concentrates: Saleable production (‘000 tonnes) Sales (‘000 tonnes) (a) 17.2 16.3 12.4 13.6 7.0 9.5 6.6 8.2 5.1 2.7 43.1 47.6 Contained gold in concentrates: Saleable production (‘000 ounces) 25.6 21.8 15.1 16.3 10.0 78.8 19.1 16.2 23.3 16.7 6.0 75.4 2,886 3,025 3,046 3,958 3,181 12,915 0.71 0.70 0.68 0.69 0.71 0.70 82.1 56.0 48.6 52.5 73.9 239.2 27.4 31.5 31.0 30.7 29.9 29.8 22.5 17.6 15.0 16.1 22.1 71.4 73.6 74.2 73.9 74.1 66.4 295.8 21.2 20.8 22.9 22.9 24.0 24.0 22.7 24.0 18.1 18.3 90.7 91.7 Copper and gold (continued) Northparkes Joint Venture New South Wales, Australia Ore treated (‘000 tonnes) Average ore grades: Copper (%) Gold (g/t) 80.0 % Sales (‘000 ounces) (a) (a) Rio Tinto’s 80% share of material from the Joint Venture. Palabora Palabora mine South Africa Ore treated (‘000 tonnes) Average ore grade: copper (%) Copper concentrates produced (‘000 tonnes) Average concentrate grade: copper (%) Copper in concentrates (‘000 tonnes) Palabora smelter/refinery New concentrate smelted on site (‘000 tonnes) New copper anodes produced (‘000 tonnes) Refined new copper 57.7 % produced (‘000 tonnes) By-products: Magnetite concentrate (‘000 tonnes) Nickel contained in products (tonnes) (a) Vermiculite plant Vermiculite produced (‘000 tonnes) 262 321 361 363 446 1,306 5 12 43 45 42 104 50 50 50 50 50 200 (a) Nickel production is now reported as contained nickel in product. Diamonds Argyle Diamonds Western Australia AK1 ore processed (‘000 tonnes) AK1 diamonds produced (‘000 carats) 100.0 % Diavik Diamonds Northwest Territories, Canada Ore processed (‘000 tonnes) Diamonds recovered (‘000 carats) 60.0 % Murowa Diamonds Zimbabwe Ore processed (‘000 tonnes) Diamonds recovered (‘000 carats) 77.8 % 2,168 2,178 2,362 1,917 1,549 8,625 3,470 4,414 4,865 5,995 2,172 18,744 520 643 656 581 435 2,400 2,585 3,291 3,123 2,944 1,785 11,943 30 46 55 72 88 203 15 31 40 59 67 145 Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 19 Rio Tinto operational data 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 100.0 % 60.0 % 20,161 2,641 24,617 2,905 23,990 2,589 25,799 2,413 23,731 2,474 94,567 10,549 (a ) 50.0 % 2,166 — 1,670 — 1,562 — 1,535 64 1,801 1,076 6,932 64 53.0 % 6,168 6,901 5,608 6,812 6,811 25,489 53.0 % 6,020 6,178 6,432 7,393 6,753 26,023 Total production (‘000 tonnes) 37,156 42,271 40,180 44,016 42,646 163,624 Total sales (‘000 tonnes) (c) 34,851 41,340 40,444 44,465 42,691 161,100 Rio Tinto interest Iron ore and iron Rio Tinto Iron Ore Pilbara Operations Western Australia Saleable iron ore production (‘000 tonnes): Hamersley — Paraburdoo, Mount Tom Price, Marandoo, Yandicoogina, Brockman and Nammuldi Hamersley — Channar Hamersley — Eastern Range Hope Downs (b) Robe River — Pannawonica Robe River — West Angelas (a) Rio Tinto owns 54% of the Eastern Range mine. Under the terms of the joint venture agreement, Hamersley Iron manages the operation and is obliged to purchase all mine production from the joint venture and therefore all of the production is included in Rio Tinto’s share of production. (b) Hope Downs started production in the fourth quarter of 2007 (c) Sales represent iron ore exported from Western Australian ports. Iron Ore Company of Canada Newfoundland & Labrador and Quebec in Canada Saleable iron ore production: Concentrates (‘000 tonnes) Pellets (‘000 tonnes) Sales: Concentrate (‘000 58.7 % 82 2,325 613 2,334 723 3,323 505 3,324 360 3,249 1,923 11,306 436 296 820 855 262 2,407 tonnes) Pellets (‘000 tonnes) Rio Tinto Brasil Corumbá mine Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil Saleable iron ore production (‘000 tonnes) (a) Sales (‘000 tonnes) 1,791 2,727 3,327 3,146 2,547 10,991 460 347 424 245 528 401 365 112 508 369 1,777 1,105 21 0 49 45 18 115 100.0 % (a) Production includes by-product fines. HIsmelt ® Western Australia Pig iron production (‘000 tonnes) 60.0 % Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 20 Rio Tinto operational data Rio Tinto interest 1Q 2007 2Q 2007 3Q 2007 4Q 2007 1Q 2008 FULL YEAR 2007 1,719 1,476 2,165 2,467 1,840 7,827 Salt Rio Tinto Minerals — salt (a) Western Australia Salt production (‘000 tonnes) 68.4 % (a) Rio Tinto increased its shareholding in Rio Tinto Minerals — salt to 68.4% at the beginning of July 2007. Talc Rio Tinto Minerals — talc Australia, Europe, and North America Talc production (‘000 tonnes) 100.0 % 352 326 318 284 342 1,281 351 367 356 384 356 1,458 2,204 3,269 2,895 3,346 2,940 11,713 1,884 1,417 1,641 1,773 1,947 6,714 Titanium dioxide feedstock Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium Canada and South Africa (Rio Tinto share) Titanium dioxide feedstock production (‘000 tonnes) 100.0 % Uranium Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Ranger mine Northern Territory, Australia Production (‘000 lbs U 3 O 8 ) Rössing Uranium Ltd Namibia Production (‘000 lbs U 3 O 8 ) 68.4 % 68.6 % Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 31 March 2008. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated. First quarter 2008 operations review Page 21 Index to operational data Page Aluminium Rio Tinto Alcan - Alma - Alouette (Sept-Iles) - Alucam (Edea) - Anglesey Aluminium - Arvida - Awaso - Beauharnois - Becancour - Bell Bay - Beyrede - Boyne Island - Brockville - Dunkerque - Gardanne - Gove - Grande-Baie - Jonquiere - ISAL (Reykjavik) - Kitimat - La Bathie - Lannemezan - Laterriere - Lochaber - Lynemouth - Ningxia (Qingtongxia) - Porto Trombetas (MRN) - Queensland Alumina - Sangaredi - Sebree - Shawinigan - Sao Luis (Alumar) - SORAL (Husnes) - St-Jean-de-Maurienne - Teutschenthal - Tiwai Point - Tomago - Weipa - Yarwun Canada Canada Cameroon UK Canada Ghana Canada Canada Australia France Australia Canada France France Australia Canada Canada Iceland Canada France France Canada UK UK China Brazil Australia Guinea USA Canada Brazil Norway France Germany New Zealand Australia Australia Australia 15 15 15 15 15 14 15 15 15 14 15 14 15 14 14 15 14 15 15 14 15 15 15 15 15 14 14 14 15 15 14 15 15 14 15 15 14 14 US US Argentina 15 15 15 Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 Borates Rio Tinto Minerals — borates Boron Tincalayu Coal Rio Tinto Coal Australia: - Bengalla - Blair Athol - Hail Creek - Hunter Valley Operations - Kestrel - Mount Thorley Operations - Warkworth Rio Tinto Energy America: - Antelope - Colowyo - Cordero Rojo - Decker - Jacobs Ranch - Spring Creek Australia US US US US US US US 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 Chile US Indonesia US US US Australia South Africa 17 17 17 18 18 18 19 19 Copper Escondida Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold: - Grasberg Kennecott Utah Copper: - Bingham Canyon - Kennecott smelter and refinery Northparkes Palabora mine and smelter Diamonds Argyle Diamonds Diavik Diamonds Murowa Diamonds Australia Canada Zimbabwe 19 19 19 Chile US Indonesia US US US US US US Australia 17 17 17 18 18 18 18 18 18 19 Brazil Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Australia Canada Australia Australia Australia 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 US US 18 18 Gold Escondida Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold: - Grasberg Kennecott Utah Copper: - Barneys Canyon - Bingham Canyon Kennecott Minerals: - Greens Creek - Rawhide Northparkes Iron Ore Corumbá Hamersley: - Brockman - Channar - Eastern Range - Marandoo - Mt Tom Price - Nammuldi - Paraburdoo - Yandicoogina Hope Downs Iron Ore Company of Canada Robe River: Pannawonica West Angelas Lead/Zinc Kennecott Minerals: - Greens Creek Molybdenum Bingham Canyon US 18 Australia 20 Rio Tinto Minerals — salt Australia 21 Silver Bingham Canyon Escondida Grasberg Greens Creek US Chile Indonesia US 18 17 17 18 Australia/Europe/ US/Canada 20 Canada South Africa 21 21 Australia Australia Namibia 21 21 21 Pig Iron HIsmelt ® Salt Talc Rio Tinto Minerals — talc Titanium dioxide feedstock QIT mine and smelter Richards Bay Minerals mine and smelter Uranium Energy Resources of Australia — Ranger Rössing First quarter 2008 operations review Page 22 Exhibit 99.4 Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom T +44 (0) 20 7781 2000 F +44 (0) 20 7781 1800 Press release Rio Tinto completes sale of Greens Creek Mine interest 16 April 2008 Rio Tinto has completed the sale of Kennecott Greens Creek Mining Company and Kennecott Juneau Mining Company, the subsidiaries holding its 70.3 per cent interest in the Greens Creek mine in Alaska to an affiliate of Hecla Mining Company, giving Hecla 100 per cent ownership. The sale price includes cash consideration of US$700 million and $50 million in Hecla stock. The transaction, which was announced on 12 February 2008, is part of Rio Tinto’s planned programme to divest at least US$15 billion of assets. Rio Tinto also recently completed the sale of its interest in the Cortez gold mine in Nevada for $1.695 billion in cash along with certain retained contingent royalty interests. With the completion of both transactions, Rio Tinto has achieved close to one quarter of its target of realising asset sales of US$10 billion in 2008. In November 2007, Rio Tinto announced the results of its overall strategic review of the company’s asset portfolio following its acquisition of Alcan. Options are also being explored to divest Rio Tinto Energy America (coal), Rio Tinto Minerals’ talc and borates businesses, Rio Tinto Alcan Packaging, Rio Tinto Alcan Engineered Products, Rio Tinto’s Northparkes copper mine in Australia and Rio Tinto’s Sweetwater (USA) and Kintyre (Australia) uranium assets. About Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Rio Tinto’s business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this announcement, including, without limitation, those regarding Rio Tinto’s financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including development plans and objectives relating to Rio Tinto’s Cont.../ Continues Page 2 of 3 products, production forecasts and reserve and resource positions), are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Rio Tinto, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding Rio Tinto’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which Rio Tinto will operate in the future. Among the important factors that could cause Rio Tinto’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among others, levels of actual production during any period, levels of demand and market prices, the ability to produce and transport products profitably, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on market prices and operating costs, operational problems, political uncertainty and economic conditions in relevant areas of the world, the actions of competitors, activities by governmental authorities such as changes in taxation or regulation and such other risk factors identified in Rio Tinto’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC or Form 6-Ks furnished to the SEC. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking (except as required by applicable law, the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the “ Takeover Code” ), the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Rio Tinto’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily match or exceed its historical published earnings per share. Subject to the requirements of the Takeover Code, none of Rio Tinto, any of its officers or any person named in this announcement with their consent or any person involved in the preparation of this announcement makes any representation or warranty (either express or implied) or gives any assurance that the implied values, anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in forward-looking statements contained in this announcement will be achieved. Cont.../ Continues Page 3 of 3 For further information, please contact: Media Relations, London Christina Mills Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1154 Mobile: +44 (0) 7825 275 605 Media Relations, Australia Ian Head Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3620 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 360 101 Nick Cobban Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1138 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 041 003 Amanda Buckley Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3627 Mobile: +61 (0) 419 801 349 Media Relations, US Nancy Ives Mobile: +1 619 540 3751 Investor Relations, London Nigel Jones Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2049 Mobile: +44 (0) 7917 227 365 Investor Relations, Australia Dave Skinner Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3628 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 335 309 David Ovington Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2051 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 010 978 Simon Ellinor Office:+ 61 (0) 7 3867 1607 Mobile: +61 (0) 439 102 811 Investor Relations, North America Jason Combes Office: +1 (0) 801 685 4535 Mobile: +1 (0) 801 558 2645 Email: [email protected] Website: www.riotinto.com High resolution photographs available at: www.newscast.co.uk Exhibit 99.5 Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom T +44 (0) 20 7781 2000 F +44 (0) 20 7781 1800 Press release Rio Tinto plc AGM, April 2008 17 April 2008 Rio Tinto plc annual general meeting was held at 11.00 am on Thursday, 17 April 2008 at The Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, Broad Sanctuary, Westminster, London SW1. The transcript of the speeches by the chairman and the chief executive are below. [1. Title slide] [2. Paul Skinner slide] Opening remarks by the chairman, Paul Skinner Good morning ladies and gentlemen. I am very pleased to welcome you to this year’s Annual General Meeting. Before we go any further there will be a short safety briefing. This is something Rio Tinto takes very seriously and I would ask that you all listen carefully. [3. New Directors] Directors All your directors are present at today’s meeting, except Andrew Gould who has an unavoidable long standing commitment. Following the acquisition of Alcan we are especially pleased to welcome Yves Fortier and Paul Tellier who are standing for election to the board as non executive directors, and Dick Evans, chief executive of Rio Tinto Alcan, as an executive director. This strong representation from Canada will provide important continuity in the integration of Alcan and brings valuable new perspectives to the board. Members of the board who are standing for re-election today are Tom Albanese, Vivienne Cox, Richard Goodmanson and myself. As we announced last year, Sir Richard Sykes, currently the senior independent director, will retire after this year’s annual general meetings after ten years on the board. I take this opportunity of recognising his valuable contribution to Rio Tinto over that period, for which we thank him. Andrew Gould, currently chairman of the Audit committee, will become the senior independent director on Richard’s retirement and will become chairman of the Remuneration committee. Sir David Clementi will replace Andrew as chairman of the Audit committee. These changes are planned to take effect at the conclusion of the 2008 annual general meetings. Cont.../ Continues Page 2 of 11 Ill health led to the resignation of Ashton Calvert from the board in November and we were deeply saddened to hear of his death shortly afterwards. Ashton joined the boards in 2005 following a long and distinguished career in the Australian foreign service before his last role as secretary at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He made a major contribution to Rio Tinto and provided valuable insights across a range of major strategic issues, notably in relation to our businesses in Australia and Asia. He was an inspiring colleague and we miss him greatly. During 2007 we also achieved a seamless transition in our executive leadership with Tom Albanese taking over as chief executive on 1 May. Retaining continuity and stability during a change of leadership does not just happen — it is the result of careful planning and management focus. It is testament to the quality of our leadership team that they have delivered a string of records during the year against the backdrop of heightened corporate activity. We are very fortunate to have one of the strongest management teams in the resources sector. [4. Records across the board] Results and dividend Rio Tinto is about value creation and business excellence and we remain committed to both. I am pleased to say that the Group had another record year in 2007, with continuing strong demand and prices for our products. Our underlying earnings in 2007 were a record 7.4 billion US dollars, one per cent above 2006. Net earnings were 7.3 billion, and cash flow from operations increased 15 per cent to a record 12.5 billion. We are currently generating around a billion dollars a month in cash. [5. Progressive dividends] Total dividends declared for 2007 of 136 US cents per share represent an increase of 31 per cent over the 2006 dividend. Reflecting our confidence in the continuing growth of the business, we have committed to further total increases in the dividend of at least 20 per cent in each of 2008 and 2009. We have always said that our first priority for excess capital after our reinvestment in profitable growth is the ordinary dividend, and we are pleased to reinforce this commitment to our shareholders. Our confidence is also reflected in our planned capital expenditure in 2008 and 2009 – indicatively around nine billion dollars in each year, including the commitments we have made to Rio Tinto Alcan’s growth projects. We have many opportunities to grow our business from our expanded asset base. [6. Strategic fit of Alcan deal] Strategy Our strategy to add value over time is characterised by consistency and simplicity – we aim to invest in large, long life, cost competitive assets. The acquisition of Alcan is an excellent example. Against a background of strengthening aluminium prices we have created a global leader in this sector, with high quality assets in all phases of aluminium production. Cont.../ Continues Page 3 of 11 Similarly, our ongoing investments in iron ore production and infrastructure, and our plans for investment in a series of large, long term copper projects are targeted to create significant value over time. Tom will say more about this. We have also committed to a programme of disposal of non core assets which will lower our debt level and create the opportunity to focus our business on world class, market leading positions. This is progressing well. [7. Offer rejected] BHP Billiton offer I should like to make a few comments on the position following BHP Billiton’s preconditional offer. As you know, the Rio Tinto boards unanimously rejected an outline proposal last November of three BHP Billiton shares for each Rio Tinto share. This rejection was after full consideration by our board, on the basis that it significantly undervalued Rio Tinto’s assets and prospects. In February, BHP Billiton followed this approach with a pre-conditional offer of 3.4 BHP Billiton shares for each Rio Tinto share. Again our boards gave this very careful consideration and concluded that we should reject this also for the same reasons. We have an outstanding portfolio of assets, our business is performing very strongly and is very well managed by a talented team. We have taken many opportunities to explain this to the shareholders and the financial community over recent months and I believe the intrinsic value of Rio Tinto is becoming increasingly clear. As you know, a 12 per cent holding in Rio Tinto plc has been taken by the Aluminum Corporation of China (Chinalco). This is not something we solicited, but the acquisition, at a premium to the then prevailing market price, gives directional support to our view on Rio Tinto’s value. We shall therefore continue on our course of creating value for shareholders and the board will not engage in discussion with any party whose proposals do not fully value Rio Tinto. This would need to reflect a significant premium to what we can achieve ourselves — so far we have not seen that. In the meantime the momentum in our business continues to develop strongly. [8. Strong in Australia] Strong in Australia A lot of that momentum comes from our activities in Australia, a country enjoying strong economic growth from its mineral endowment. Rio Tinto is in the forefront of national wealth creation that adds value to the economy in the form of wages, taxes, royalties and interest, as well as profits distributed to shareholders. Our pioneering dual listed companies’ structure has proved a very strong platform for growth and we have the capacity to do all we need to do in our sector — Alcan was an example — but at the same time maintain our special relationship with Australia. Rio Tinto’s focus on its Australian operations has intensified over recent years – with approximately 30 billion Australian dollars in investment since 1998. Last year our value added in Australia amounted to 10 billion. Even more importantly we employ 17,000 people in well paid jobs in Australia. Cont.../ Continues Page 4 of 11 [9. Sustainable development] Sustainable development A successful business is one that is sustainable and meets all its legitimate stakeholders’ needs in the short term and the long term. By earning a good reputation for our care of the environment and contribution to social improvement and economic conditions of local communities, all within a strong governance structure, we gain improved access to land, people and capital, the three critical resources on which our business success is built. Our demonstrated commitment to sustainable development is matched by Alcan’s. These common values are greatly assisting in the integration of the two businesses. Rio Tinto Alcan aims to be the sustainability leader in aluminium. It has consistently been at the forefront of developing the most advanced smelting technology to reduce energy use and emissions. More than half of its electricity requirements come from clean hydroelectric power which will prove an increasing competitive advantage in a carbon constrained world. [10. Positive market outlook] Economic outlook Turning now to the outlook, market conditions in 2007 served to underline that strong demand for metals and minerals is continuing. There has clearly been a shift in the cyclical pattern of the industry, driven by demand from fast developing economies. This presents mining companies with a potentially extended period of strong earnings. It is not only about demand – supply is struggling to catch up and keep up, due to multiple constraints in the development of new production capacity. Last year China’s economy expanded at its strongest pace in 13 years, marking the fifth year of double digit growth. Industrial production there was up by 18.5 per cent and urban investment by 25 per cent. These are key aggregate indicators of China’s industrialisation and urbanisation process. Because of the developed world’s focus on the weakening economic situation in the US, there’s a perception that mining and metals may face declining demand and a return to cyclical over capacity. This is not how we see it. Important as the US remains to the world economy, it is not as pivotal as it once was to global demand for metals and minerals. For example, last year China consumed more than half the world’s iron ore imports, and its total steel consumption was over three times that of the US. We often think of China as being powered by exports, and particularly exports to the US. In terms of demand for our products, this is not really the story any more. The direction has changed to one of accelerating internal demand driven by industrialisation and urbanisation. We expect continuing double digit GDP growth in China in 2008 and metals demand to continue to rise at a rate well above GDP growth. Even if an extended US recession were to materialise, our analysis shows it would reduce Chinese GDP only marginally. It is not just a China story – other Asian economies, notably India, are poised for extended periods of growth. We therefore remain very positive about the prospects for the industry, and for Rio Tinto in particular, given our outstanding portfolio of assets. Cont.../ Continues Page 5 of 11 [11. Conclusion] Conclusion 2007 was a transformational year for Rio Tinto. As we move through 2008 the extent of this change will become apparent as we move to a new level of performance. This, in turn, will highlight the increased focus of our business on global leading positions in products with strong fundamentals. We have established a new baseline for future value creation for shareholders. Managing major strategic initiatives places strong extra demands on management and they have certainly risen to meet the challenges. Satisfying the demands of customers, and developing new projects within tight timetables and budgets, puts considerable pressure on every individual in the organisation. Our record results in 2007 are very much a product of the commitment, dedication and hard work of all our people across the world. On behalf of the board and you, our shareholders, I thank them for all they have done to deliver success in another record year. Let me now ask Tom to comment on our operational performance in 2007. Tom, over to you. [12. Tom Albanese slide] Remarks by the chief executive, Tom Albanese Thanks Paul, and good morning ladies and gentlemen. Before I discuss our results, let me say something on safety. This remains the highest priority throughout Rio Tinto. [13. Safety slide] It is therefore deeply tragic that on 11 March we suffered the loss of ten people in a helicopter accident near the La Granja copper project in Peru. Rio Tinto is deeply saddened. Everything was done to assist the families of those on board. Bret Clayton, our Copper group chief executive, other senior executives and I immediately visited the area to lend the support we could. On 19 March all operations in the Rio Tinto Group worldwide observed a safety shutdown as a mark of respect for this tragic loss. We also very much regret the four fatalities of contractor personnel at managed operations in 2007. Nevertheless 2007 did see a continuation in improvement of our overall safety performance. Overall we have a good safety record but we will never be complacent and will continue to work towards our goal of zero harm. This is particularly important as we integrate Alcan and combine what are two strong safety cultures to drive further improvement. Cont.../ Continues Page 6 of 11 [14. Major investments, including Alcan] Our company and our industry is going through very exciting and dynamic times. None of us can remember the mining industry so buoyant and Rio Tinto being in such good shape. We delivered record production for many of our key commodities. This was reinforced by our substantial investment in growth. Major investments in growth projects made or approved in 2007 totalled an impressive 46 billion dollars. Most of this was on the acquisition of Alcan for 38 billion, but it also includes construction of iron ore mines and infrastructure, and investments in diamonds, alumina, coal and nickel. Rio Tinto Alcan The agreed takeover of Alcan in 2007 was a historic step with far reaching strategic benefits for Rio Tinto. I would like to thank you, our shareholders, for supporting the transaction. By combining Alcan with the existing Rio Tinto Aluminium business we have become a global leader in aluminium, We own premier assets throughout the aluminium value chain, competitively positioned on the global cost curve, and integration of Alcan into the Rio Tinto Group is well under way. We have 25 aluminium smelters in 11 territories, most of which are located in OECD countries. Crucially, the production base contains many of the world’s most modern and low cost smelters, fitted out with Rio Tinto Alcan’s industry leading AP Series technology. We are now a leader in aluminium industry technology, with the takeover of Alcan uniting two of the world’s top metallurgical and research and development teams in a global drive to make aluminium the green metal for the 21st century. We also own large and sustainable hydro-electric generating capacity of nearly 3,700 megawatts, much of which cannot be duplicated. This is equivalent to an oilfield producing 175,000 barrels a day forever. It constitutes a significant competitive advantage that will only increase in value over time. The Aluminium group also has a strong project development portfolio. There are six projects planned or under way in bauxite and alumina and seven more in aluminium. When the deal with Alcan was announced we saw some 600 million dollars of cost savings being achievable. After further work we have set ourselves the target of achieving after tax benefits of US$1.1 billion per year in synergies from the end of 2009. [15. China fuels commodity markets] Market environment Turning to the wider commodity market environment, over the past five years the growth of China has created high expectations with a fundamental shift in the global economy towards fast and resource intensive growth. Cont.../ Continues Page 7 of 11 Countries like China and India continue to industrialise, urbanise and expand their per capita GDP. We expect these conditions to continue for some time. On top of this strong demand, supply growth continues to be constrained, held back by decades of underinvestment by the mining industry in people, in exploration and resources, in mines and infrastructure. While demand bodes well for the future, we must remember that to keep our competitive edge we have to work faster at meeting the world’s growing demand, better at leading and shaping our industry, and smarter at creating shareholder value. This means investing in robust projects that will continue to be market leaders in decades to come. [16. Another record year] 2007 results overview Turning to the 2007 financial results, as we have seen, this was another excellent year, breaking production records for iron ore, bauxite, alumina, aluminium, refined copper and refined gold, thus making the most of higher prices. Price movements on all major commodities increased earnings by 1.4 billion dollars. We completed four major iron ore projects in 2007 on time and within budget while at the same time achieving record output. These were the expansion of the Tom Price and Yandicoogina mines; expansion of Dampier port, and completion of the first stage of the Hope Downs project. [17. Product group results] Copper The Copper group was our highest earner with a contribution to underlying earnings of 3.5 billion dollars, similar to record earnings in 2006. Earnings in 2007 reflected higher sales of refined copper, and continuing strong copper, molybdenum and gold markets. Positive co- product credits reduced our overall unit cash costs to less than zero. Iron ore Our Iron Ore group enjoyed a record breaking year. Underlying earnings rose 18 per cent and set an annual record, as did production and sales. For safety performance this was also the best year on record, with a 35 per cent improvement in the lost time injury frequency rate, despite new projects and a higher level of activity. Aluminium Aluminium’s results include Alcan businesses from 24 October. The product group’s contribution to underlying earnings was just over one billion dollars, an increase of 47 per cent over 2006. On a comparable basis, the group achieved record aluminium production. The increased earnings contribution was the result of higher aluminium prices and a one off reduction in Canadian tax rates applying to the Alcan businesses. Energy In Energy, 2007 saw the re-emergence of uranium as an important contributor. We are the world’s second largest producer and we saw a trebling of earnings from sharply rising prices realised at Rössing and ERA. In 2007 the biggest negative impact on Energy earnings came from continuing, externally managed, infrastructure issues on the east coast of Australia. We hope to see the new government in Australia begin to address this national issue as a matter of urgency. Cont.../ Continues Page 8 of 11 Diamonds and Industrial Minerals Diamonds and Industrial Minerals performed well in 2007. The Diavik diamond mine, one of the world’s most profitable, had record production and earnings. In Minerals, volume weakness in North America was offset by rising prices for borates and talc. Titanium dioxide prices also firmed, and our ilmenite project in Madagascar is on track for first production at the end of this year. [18. Portfolio and capital management] Divestments The acquisition of Alcan gave us the opportunity to refocus our portfolio. This rebalancing of the portfolio also gives us the means of reducing the debt taken on for the Alcan acquisition. We plan to reduce this debt more quickly by divesting assets that are no longer core to the enlarged Rio Tinto. We originally set ourselves a target for asset sales of at least ten billion dollars. After further review this has been increased to at least 15 billion. We aim to achieve ten billion in 2008, of which we have completed sales of 2.5 billion so far. We have formal processes in place for all asset sales, and no shortage of interested parties. [19. Project pipeline driving growth] Major project developments At the heart of our value case is the strength of our project pipeline. Our planned capital expenditure in 2008 and 2009 is nine billion dollars in each year. Our portfolio of projects allows us to target strong production growth in the three commodities that are key to the economic future of China, and later India and other fast growing and industrialising economies of Asia: iron ore, copper and aluminium. Ongoing projects include expansion at Kennecott Utah Copper in the US, new iron ore mines and port expansions in Australia, underground development of our diamond mines, extension of coking coal production and re-entry into the nickel business. In all, extending out to 2012, we have 34 key projects on the go which are expected to boost our production of key commodities. Beyond 2012, we have a number of early stage and conceptual projects – La Granja copper, Simandou iron ore, Resolution copper and Sulawesi Nickel, for example. [20. Rio Tinto – a leader in exploration] Exploration Looking even further ahead we have strong growth opportunities generated from our exploration activities, both greenfield and near mine. This is the most cost effective way of acquiring quality assets, and we are very good at it. Cont.../ Continues Page 9 of 11 It is often our ability to think creatively about an existing asset or a known prospect, which unlocks the opportunity to create value. Resolution, Simandou, Potasio Rio Colorado and La Granja would be good recent examples. The recently announced one billion tonne Chapudi coal resource in South Africa could be a future example. We continue to invest at high levels in the area of exploration and evaluation, on which our total pre tax spend was 570 million dollars in 2007. [21. Forecast growth] Strong prospects Rio Tinto’s project pipeline and exploration capability, together with our proven project execution capability is the key to value adding growth. Based on our portfolio of projects, we estimate that the compound annual growth rate of our volumes from 2008 to 2015 is over eight per cent per annum. This is based on the volume growth rate of our individual products indexed into comparable monetary equivalents using consensus long term prices. This equates to growth in value, which is the key driver of Rio Tinto. Volume growth from competitively positioned assets at a time of strong demand will lead to substantially enhanced returns for shareholders. All our investments must pass a rigorous appraisal discipline before they are approved. As I’ve said, we are in a unique position with strong demand for everything we produce – and we have the operations, prospects and capabilities to deliver this growth. Our current position in each of our three main products is very strong. We have large scale if not leading positions in each one of them, with competitive operational costs in the first or lower second quartiles. We have an excellent set of growth opportunities, with the potential to double or even treble the production of our key commodities. [22. Delivering today, positioned for the future] Conclusion Rio Tinto is therefore perfectly positioned to take advantage of the opportunities afforded by markets that are expected to remain strong for decades to come. We remain totally focused on value and I am resolved to make the business work faster at meeting the world’s growing demand, better at leading and shaping our industry, and smarter at creating value for our shareholders. Our 2007 results show that our growth is accelerating. Our planned investments are targeted to maintain this momentum. Rio Tinto is about value. The value will come from leveraging our assets, our prospects, and our organisation in a very strong market environment, while continuing our commitment to safety, and adhering to our sustainable development principles. Cont.../ Continues Page 10 of 11 And ultimately the value we create will belong to you our shareholders. Thank you, and now I will hand you back to Paul. The chairman resumes the formal part of the meeting About Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed public company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is a public company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Rio Tinto’s business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this announcement, including, without limitation, those regarding Rio Tinto’s financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including development plans and objectives relating to Rio Tinto’s products, production forecasts and reserve and resource positions), are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Rio Tinto, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding Rio Tinto’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which Rio Tinto will operate in the future. Among the important factors that could cause Rio Tinto’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among others, levels of actual production during any period, levels of demand and market prices, the ability to produce and transport products profitably, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on market prices and operating costs, operational problems, political uncertainty and economic conditions in relevant areas of the world, the actions of competitors, activities by governmental authorities such as changes in taxation or regulation and such other risk factors identified in Rio Tinto’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) or Form 6-Ks furnished to the SEC. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking (except as required by applicable law, the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the “Takeover Code ”), the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Rio Tinto’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Cont.../ Continues Page 11 of 11 Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily match or exceed its historical published earnings per share. Subject to the requirements of the Takeover Code, none of Rio Tinto, any of its officers or any person named in this announcement with their consent or any person involved in the preparation of this announcement makes any representation or warranty (either express or implied) or gives any assurance that the implied values, anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in forward-looking statements contained in this announcement will be achieved. For further information, please contact: Media Relations, Australia Amanda Buckley Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3627 Mobile: +61 (0) 419 801 349 Ian Head Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3620 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 360 101 Media Relations, London Christina Mills Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1154 Mobile: +44 (0) 7825 275 605 Nick Cobban Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1138 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 041 003 Media Relations, Americas Nancy Ives Mobile: +1 619 540 3751 Investor Relations, Australia Dave Skinner Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3628 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 335 309 Investor Relations, London Nigel Jones Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2049 Mobile: +44 (0) 7917 227365 Simon Ellinor Office: +61 (0) 7 3867 1607 Mobile: +61 (0) 439 102 811 David Ovington Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2051 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 010 978 Investor Relations, North America Jason Combes Office: +1 (0) 801 685 4535 Mobile: +1 (0) 801 558 2645 Email: [email protected] Website: www.riotinto.com High resolution photographs available at: www.newscast.co.uk Exhibit 99.6 Annual General Meeting 17 April 2008 Paul Skinner Chairman October 2007 October 2007 October 2007 New directors Yves Fortier Paul Tellier Dick Evans 3 2007 — records across the board Record underlying earnings of US$7.4 billion, up 1% Record cash flow from operations of US$12.6 billion, up 15% Record capital investment of US$5.0 billion, up 25% Record new capital commitments US$8 billion announced Dividend increased by 31% for the 2007 year – commitment to further 20%+ increases in 2008 and in 2009 Progressive dividend policy Strategic fit of Alcan deal acquired iron life, alongside ongoing long assets assets large, leader, on assets aluminium sector non-core focus quality copper of and Strategy competitive High Aluminium ore Disposal BHp Billiton Offer rejected on value grounds Unsolicited “pre-conditional” offer Rejected on value grounds after full consideration Fails to recognise Rio tinto’s outstanding prospects Rio Tinto perfodrming strongly under talented management Chinalco inivestment of 12% in Rio Tinto plc remain Committed to existing strategy Strong in Australia 1998 over 2007 wealth since in billion billion Australia employment national operations A$30 A$10 in to significant about of Aboriginal years added employees in of Contribution many Base Invested Value 17,000 Leader Sustainable development values Tinto reduce to Rio commitment a of this technology use/emissions power advantage component shares hydro Key Alcan Smelting energy Clean competitive Positive market outlook growth trend markets West positioned Indian by demand financial well and affected strong from Chinese less portfolio Multi-decade Differentiated Tinto Strong Demand Rio 10 Conclusion trajectory well success performing year creation delivering team transformational earnings/value management employees a new Strong Committed 2007 A 11 Tom Albanese Chief executive 2007 Safety is core to our business Decline in injury frequency rates 1998 worked Per 200 000 hours 13 Major investments, including Alcan Alcan acquisition US$38 billion US$46 billion in growth projects – Global leader with premier assets Leader in aluminium technology Sustainable hydro energy Strong development portfolio Synergies could yield US$1.1 billion 14 China continues to fuel commodity markets High expectations fuelled by sustained demand fundamental shift in world economy Conditions will continue for some time Need to invest in market leaders 15 Another record year iron ore, bauxite, alumina, aluminium, refined copper and gold Record production in – – – Higher prices increased earnings by US$1.4 billion Projects on time, within budget 16 Product group results EARNINGS US$3.5 billion US$2.6 billion US$1.0 billion US$484 million US$488 million set records Diavik earnings up 47% on record output –highest earner on strong sales and prices earnings rose 18% for record year — resurgent uranium the headline earner – - – Diamonds and Minerals Copper Iron ore Aluminium Energy 17 Portfolio and capital management · aluminium · Tinto copper, complete Rio ore, levels already iron debt transforming – disposals portfolio reducing of acquisition the Divestments billion Alcan Focusing US$2.5 18 Project pipeline driving growth 19 Rio Tinto – a leader in exploration 20 Strong forecast growth in total producton for 2008. volume is rebased to 100 multiplied by long term analyst consensus prices. Total production attributable production. Figures are based on estimated yearly production levels total Commodities included for Rio Tinto: Aluminium, alumina, iron ore, export thermal coal, export metallurgical coal, copper, gold, silver, molybdenum, and uranium. Rio Tinto production source: Rio Tinto. Production is 21 Delivering today, strongly positioned forgrowth in the future · demand industry value growing our world’s shaping shareholder the and meeting leading creating at at at SMARTER FASTER BETTER 22 Annual General Meeting 2008 17 April 2008 23 Exhibit 99.7 Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom T +44 ( 0 ) 20 7781 2000 F +44 ( 0 ) 20 7781 1800 Press release Rio Tinto plc Results of voting at 2008 annual general meeting 17 April 2008 The Annual General Meeting of Rio Tinto plc was held on 17 April 2008. Under Rio Tinto’s dual listed companies structure established in 1995, decisions on significant matters affecting shareholders of Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto Limited in similar ways are taken through a joint electoral procedure. Resolutions 1 to 10 and 16 of the Rio Tinto plc annual general meeting fall into this category, and the results of the voting on these resolutions will be announced shortly after the Rio Tinto Limited annual general meeting which will be held in Australia on 24 April 2008. The remaining resolutions 11 to 15 were put to Rio Tinto plc shareholders on a poll at the annual general meeting and the results as certified by the scrutineers, Computershare Investor Services PLC, were as follows: Resolutions 11. 12. 13. 14. For % Against % Vote withheld Approval of the use of e-communications for shareholder materials 625,836,411 99.91 533,922 0.09 649,615 Authority to allot relevant securities under Section 80 of the Companies Act 1985 620,178,335 99.01 6,231,152 0.99 623,899 Authority to allot equity securities for cash under Section 89 of the Companies Act 1985 624,464,785 99.68 2,032,298 0.32 536,303 Authority to purchase Rio Tinto plc shares by the Company or Rio Tinto Limited 626,562,454 99.97 180,230 0.03 290,705 Continues Page 2 of 2 About Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed public company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is a public company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Rio Tinto’s business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa. For further information, please contact: Media Relations, Australia Amanda Buckley Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3627 Mobile: +61 (0) 419 801 349 Ian Head Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3620 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 360 101 Media Relations, London Christina Mills Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1154 Mobile: +44 (0) 7825 275 605 Nick Cobban Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1138 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 041 003 Media Relations, Americas Nancy Ives Mobile: +1 619 540 3751 Investor Relations, Australia Dave Skinner Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3628 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 335 309 Investor Relations, London Nigel Jones Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2049 Mobile: +44 (0) 7917 227365 Simon Ellinor Office: +61 (0) 7 3867 1607 Mobile: +61 (0) 439 102 811 David Ovington Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2051 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 010 978 Investor Relations, North America Jason Combes Office: +1 (0) 801 685 4535 Mobile: +1 (0) 801 558 2645 Email: [email protected] Exhibit 99.8 120 Collins Street Melbourne 3000 Australia T +61 (0) 3 9283 3333 F +61 (0) 3 9283 3707 Press release Rio Tinto welcomes High Court decision on Shovelanna lease 18 April 2008 Commenting on today’s High Court decision regarding the Shovelanna deposit, Rio Tinto Iron Ore chief executive Sam Walsh said: “This decision is welcomed by Rio Tinto. It confirms that due process was followed by the Western Australian Minister for Resources. Since 2003 Rio Tinto Iron Ore has committed more than US$7 billion to expand its annual iron ore export capacity to 220 million tonnes by 2009. “Today’s decision is important in ensuring the continuity of our operations well into the future, as we progress towards achieving 320 Mtpa capacity in 2012.” About Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Rio Tinto’s business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement includes forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this announcement, including, without limitation, those regarding Rio Tinto’s financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including development plans and objectives relating to Rio Tinto’s products, production forecasts and reserve and resource positions), are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Rio Tinto, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding Rio Tinto’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which Rio Tinto will operate in the future. Among the important factors that could cause Rio Tinto’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among others, levels of demand and market prices, the ability Continues Page 2 of 2 to produce and transport products profitably, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on market prices and operating costs, operational problems, political uncertainty and economic conditions in relevant areas of the world, the actions of competitors, activities by governmental authorities such as changes in taxation or regulation and such other risk factors identified in Rio Tinto’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) or Form 6-Ks furnished to the SEC. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking (except as required by applicable law, the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the “ Takeover Code ”), the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Rio Tinto’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily match or exceed its historical published earnings per share. Subject to the requirements of the Takeover Code, none of Rio Tinto, any of its officers or any person named in this announcement with their consent or any person involved in the preparation of this announcement makes any representation or warranty (either express or implied) or gives any assurance that the implied values, anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in forward-looking statements contained in this announcement will be achieved. For further information, please contact: Media Relations, Australia Gervase Greene Office: +61 (0) 8 9327 2975 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 098 572 Amanda Buckley Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3627 Mobile: +61 (0) 419 801 349 Media Relations, London Christina Mills Office: +44 (0) 20 8080 1306 Mobile: +44 (0) 7825 275 605 Nick Cobban Office: +44 (0) 20 8080 1305 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 041 003 Media Relations, Americas Nancy Ives Mobile: +1 619 540 3751 Investor Relations, Australia Dave Skinner Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3628 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 335 309 Simon Ellinor Office: +61 (0) 7 3867 1607 Mobile: +61 (0) 439 102 811 Investor Relations, London Nigel Jones Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2049 Mobile: +44 (0) 7917 227365 David Ovington Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2051 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 010 978 Exhibit 99.9 Rio Tinto plc 5 Aldermanbury Square London EC2V 7HR United Kingdom T +44 (0) 20 7781 2000 F +44 (0) 20 7781 1800 Press release Rio Tinto Limited AGM 24 April 2008 The Rio Tinto Limited annual general meeting was held on Thursday, 24 April 2008 in Brisbane. The speeches by the chairman and the chief executive are below. Opening remarks by the chairman, Paul Skinner Good morning ladies and gentlemen. I am very pleased to welcome you to this year’s Annual General Meeting. Before we go any further there will be a short safety briefing. This is something Rio Tinto takes very seriously and I would ask that you all listen carefully. Directors All your directors are present at today’s meeting. Following the acquisition of Alcan we are especially pleased to welcome Yves Fortier and Paul Tellier who are standing for election to the board as non executive directors, and Dick Evans, chief executive of Rio Tinto Alcan, as an executive director. This strong representation from Canada will provide important continuity in the integration of Alcan and brings valuable new perspectives to the board. Members of the board who are standing for re-election today are Tom Albanese, Vivienne Cox, Richard Goodmanson and myself. As we announced last year, Sir Richard Sykes, currently the senior independent director, will retire after this year’s annual general meetings after ten years on the board. I take this opportunity of recognising his valuable contribution to Rio Tinto over that period, for which we thank him. Andrew Gould, currently chairman of the Audit committee , will become the senior independent director on Richard’s retirement and will become chairman of the Remuneration committee . Sir David Clementi will replace Andrew as chairman of the Audit committee . These changes are planned to take effect at the conclusion of the 2008 annual general meetings. Ill health led to the resignation of Ashton Calvert from the board in November and we were deeply saddened to hear of his death shortly afterwards. Ashton joined the boards in 2005 following a long and distinguished career in the Australian foreign service before his last role as secretary at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He made a major contribution to Rio Tinto and provided valuable insights across a range of major strategic issues, notably in relation to our businesses in Australia and Asia. He was an inspiring colleague and we miss him greatly. Continues Page 2 of 10 During 2007 we also achieved a seamless transition in our executive leadership with Tom Albanese taking over as chief executive on 1 May. Retaining continuity and stability during a change of leadership does not just happen — it is the result of careful planning and management focus. It is testament to the quality of our leadership team that they have delivered a string of records during the year against the backdrop of heightened corporate activity. We are very fortunate to have one of the strongest management teams in the resources sector. Results and dividend Rio Tinto is about value creation and business excellence and we remain committed to both. I am pleased to say that the Group had another record year in 2007, with continuing strong demand and prices for our products. Our underlying earnings in 2007 were a record US$7.4 billion, one per cent above 2006. Net earnings were $7.3 billion, and cash flow from operations increased 15 per cent to a record $12.5 billion. We are currently generating around a billion dollars a month in cash. Total dividends declared for 2007 of 136 US cents per share represent an increase of 31 per cent over the 2006 dividend. Reflecting our confidence in the continuing growth of the business, we have committed to further total increases in the dividend of at least 20 per cent in each of 2008 and 2009. We have always said that our first priority for excess capital after our reinvestment in profitable growth is the ordinary dividend, and we are pleased to reinforce this commitment to our shareholders. Our confidence is also reflected in our planned capital expenditure in 2008 and 2009 — indicatively around nine billion dollars in each year, including the commitments we have made to Rio Tinto Alcan’s growth projects. We have many opportunities to grow our business from our expanded asset base. Strategy Our strategy to add value over time is characterised by consistency and simplicity — we aim to invest in large, long life, cost competitive assets. The acquisition of Alcan is an excellent example. Against a background of strengthening aluminium prices we have created a global leader in this sector, with high quality assets in all phases of aluminium production. Similarly, our ongoing investments in iron ore production and infrastructure, and our plans for investment in a series of large, long term copper projects are targeted to create significant value over time. Tom will say more about this. We have also committed to a programme of disposal of non core assets which will lower our debt level and create the opportunity to focus our business on world class, market leading positions. This is progressing well. BHP Billiton offer Continues Page 3 of 10 We have an outstanding portfolio of assets, our business is performing very strongly and is very well managed by a talented team. We have taken many opportunities to explain this to the shareholders and the financial community over recent months and I believe the intrinsic value of Rio Tinto is becoming increasingly clear. As you know, a 12 per cent holding in Rio Tinto plc has been taken by the Aluminium Corporation of China (Chinalco). This is not something we solicited, but the acquisition, at a premium to the then prevailing market price, gives directional support to our view on Rio Tinto’s value. We shall therefore continue on our course of creating value for shareholders and the board will not engage in discussion with any party whose proposals do not fully value Rio Tinto. This would need to reflect a significant premium to what we can achieve ourselves — so far we have not seen that. In the meantime the momentum in our business continues to develop strongly. Strong in Australia A lot of that momentum comes from our activities in Australia — Queensland is one of our major operational hubs. In Australia Rio Tinto is in the forefront of national wealth creation that adds value to the economy in the form of wages, taxes, royalties and interest, as well as profits distributed to shareholders. Brisbane hosts our global Technology and Innovation group where we are developing a global position of technical leadership through our Mine of the Future programme. We also have a strong base in Melbourne, and Perth hosts Rio Tinto’s dynamic global Iron Ore business. Our pioneering dual listed companies’ structure has proved a very strong platform for growth and we have the capacity to do all we need to do in our sector — Alcan was an example — but at the same time maintain our special relationship with Australia. Rio Tinto’s focus on its Australian operations has intensified over recent years — with approximately 30 billion Australian dollars in investment since 1998. Last year our value added in Australia amounted to 10 billion. Even more importantly we employ 17,000 people in well paid jobs in Australia and are the largest private sector employer of Aboriginal people. Rio Tinto has also led the introduction to Australia of new competencies in mining — such as the first modern Aboriginal land access agreements. We are very focused on these important community relationships. We firmly believe that, through our stewardship and development of Australia’s natural resources, we have demonstrated a full commitment to Australia. A truly global company will seek to achieve that objective in every country in which it operates. Sustainable development A successful business is one that is sustainable and meets all its legitimate stakeholders’ needs in the short term and the long term. By earning a good reputation for our care of the environment and contribution to social improvement and economic conditions of local communities, all within a strong governance structure, we gain improved access to land, people and capital, the three critical resources on which our business success is built. Our demonstrated commitment to sustainable development is matched by Alcan’s. These common values are greatly assisting in the integration of the two businesses. Continues Page 4 of 10 Economic outlook Turning now to the outlook, market conditions in 2007 served to underline that strong demand for metals and minerals is continuing. There has clearly been a shift in the cyclical pattern of the industry, driven by demand from fast developing economies. This presents mining companies with a potentially extended period of strong earnings. It is not only about demand — supply is struggling to catch up and keep up, due to multiple constraints in the development of new production capacity. Last year China’s economy expanded at its strongest pace in 13 years, marking the fifth year of double digit growth. Industrial production there was up by 18.5 per cent and urban investment by 25 per cent. These are key aggregate indicators of China’s industrialisation and urbanisation process. Because of the developed world’s focus on the weakening economic situation in the US, there’s a perception that mining and metals may face declining demand and a return to cyclical over capacity. This is not how we see it. Important as the US remains to the world economy, it is not as pivotal as it once was to global demand for metals and minerals. For example, last year China consumed more than half the world’s iron ore imports, and its total steel consumption was over three times that of the US. We often think of China as being powered by exports, and particularly exports to the US. In terms of demand for our products, this is not really the story any more. The direction has changed to one of accelerating internal demand driven by industrialisation and urbanisation. We expect continuing double digit GDP growth in China in 2008 and metals demand to continue to rise at a rate well above GDP growth. Even if an extended US recession were to materialise, our analysis shows it would reduce Chinese GDP only marginally. It is not just a China story — other Asian economies, notably India, are poised for extended periods of growth. We therefore remain very positive about the prospects for the industry, and for Rio Tinto in particular, given our outstanding portfolio of assets. Conclusion 2007 was a transformational year for Rio Tinto. As we move through 2008 the extent of this change will become apparent as we move to a new level of performance. This, in turn, will highlight the increased focus of our business on global leading positions in products with strong fundamentals. We have established a new baseline for future value creation for shareholders. Managing major strategic initiatives places strong extra demands on management and they have certainly risen to meet the challenges. Satisfying the demands of customers, and developing new projects within tight timetables and budgets, puts considerable pressure on every individual in the organisation. Our record results in 2007 are very much a product of the commitment, dedication and hard work of all our people across the world. On behalf of the board and you, our shareholders, I thank them for all they have done to deliver success in another record year. Remarks by the chief executive, Tom Albanese Before I discuss our results, let me say something on safety. This remains the highest priority throughout Rio Tinto. Continues Page 5 of 10 Rio Tinto is deeply saddened. Everything was done to assist the families of those on board. Bret Clayton, our Copper group chief executive, other senior executives and I immediately visited the area to lend the support we could. On 19 March all operations in the Rio Tinto Group worldwide observed a safety shutdown as a mark of respect for this tragic loss. We also very much regret the four fatalities of contractor personnel at managed operations in 2007. Nevertheless 2007 did see a continuation in improvement of our overall safety performance. Overall we have a good safety record but we will never be complacent and will continue to work towards our goal of zero harm. This is particularly important as we integrate Alcan and combine what are two strong safety cultures to drive further improvement. Our company and our industry is going through very exciting and dynamic times. None of us can remember the mining industry so buoyant and Rio Tinto being in such good shape. We delivered record production for many of our key commodities. This was reinforced by our substantial investment in growth. Major investments in growth projects made or approved in 2007 totalled an impressive $46 billion. Most of this was on the acquisition of Alcan for $38 billion, but it also includes construction of iron ore mines and infrastructure, and investments in diamonds, alumina, coal and nickel. Rio Tinto Alcan The agreed takeover of Alcan in 2007 was a historic step with far reaching strategic benefits for Rio Tinto. I would like to thank you, our shareholders, for supporting the transaction. By combining Alcan with the existing Rio Tinto Aluminium business we have become a global leader in aluminium, We own premier assets throughout the aluminium value chain, competitively positioned on the global cost curve, and integration of Alcan into the Rio Tinto Group is well under way. We have 25 aluminium smelters in 11 territories, most of which are located in OECD countries. Crucially, the production base contains many of the world’s most modern and low cost smelters, fitted out with Rio Tinto Alcan’s industry leading AP Series technology. We are now a leader in aluminium industry technology, with the takeover of Alcan uniting two of the world’s top metallurgical and research and development teams in a global drive to make aluminium the green metal for the 21st century. We also own large and sustainable hydro-electric generating capacity of nearly 3,700 megawatts, much of which cannot be duplicated. This is equivalent to an oilfield producing 175,000 barrels a day forever. It constitutes a significant competitive advantage that will only increase in value over time. The Aluminium group also has a strong project development portfolio. There are six projects planned or under way in bauxite and alumina and seven more in aluminium. When the deal with Alcan was announced we saw some 600 million dollars of cost savings being achievable. After further work we have set ourselves the target of achieving after tax benefits of US$1.1 billion per year in synergies from the end of 2009. Continues Page 6 of 10 Market environment Turning to the wider commodity market environment, over the past five years the growth of China has created high expectations with a fundamental shift in the global economy towards fast and resource intensive growth. Countries like China and India continue to industrialise, urbanise and expand their per capita GDP. We expect these conditions to continue for some time. On top of this strong demand, supply growth continues to be constrained, held back by decades of underinvestment by the mining industry in people, in exploration and resources, in mines and infrastructure. While demand bodes well for the future, we must remember that to keep our competitive edge we have to work faster at meeting the world’s growing demand, better at leading and shaping our industry, and smarter at creating shareholder value. This means investing in robust projects that will continue to be market leaders in decades to come. 2007 results overview Turning to the 2007 financial results, as we have seen, this was another excellent year, breaking production records for iron ore, bauxite, alumina, aluminium, refined copper and refined gold, thus making the most of higher prices. Price movements on all major commodities increased earnings by 1.4 billion dollars. We completed four major iron ore projects in 2007 on time and within budget while at the same time achieving record output. These were the expansion of the Tom Price and Yandicoogina mines; expansion of Dampier port, and completion of the first stage of the Hope Downs project. Copper The Copper group was our highest earner with a contribution to underlying earnings of $3.5 billion, similar to record earnings in 2006. Earnings in 2007 reflected higher sales of refined copper, and continuing strong copper, molybdenum and gold markets. Positive co- product credits reduced our overall unit cash costs to less than zero. Iron ore Our Iron Ore group enjoyed a record breaking year. Underlying earnings rose 18 per cent and set an annual record, as did production and sales. For safety performance this was also the best year on record, with a 35 per cent improvement in the lost time injury frequency rate, despite new projects and a higher level of activity. Aluminium Aluminium’s results include Alcan businesses from 24 October. The product group’s contribution to underlying earnings was just over one billion dollars, an increase of 47 per cent over 2006. On a comparable basis, the group achieved record aluminium Continues Page 7 of 10 Diamonds and Industrial Minerals Diamonds and Industrial Minerals performed well in 2007. The Diavik diamond mine, one of the world’s most profitable, had record production and earnings. In Minerals, volume weakness in North America was offset by rising prices for borates and talc. Titanium dioxide prices also firmed, and our ilmenite project in Madagascar is on track for first production at the end of this year. Divestments The acquisition of Alcan gave us the opportunity to refocus our portfolio. This rebalancing of the portfolio also gives us the means of reducing the debt taken on for the Alcan acquisition. We plan to reduce this debt more quickly by divesting assets that are no longer core to the enlarged Rio Tinto. We originally set ourselves a target for asset sales of at least $10 billion. After further review this has been increased to at least $15 billion. We aim to achieve $10 billion in 2008, of which we have completed sales of $2.5 billion so far. We have formal processes in place for all asset sales, and no shortage of interested parties. Major project developments At the heart of our value case is the strength of our project pipeline. Our planned capital expenditure in 2008 and 2009 is $9 billion in each year. Our portfolio of projects allows us to target strong production growth in the three commodities that are key to the economic future of China, and later India and other fast growing and industrialising economies of Asia: iron ore, copper and aluminium. Ongoing projects include expansion at Kennecott Utah Copper in the US, new iron ore mines and port expansions in Australia, underground development of our diamond mines, extension of coking coal production and re-entry into the nickel business. In all, extending out to 2012, we have 34 key projects on the go which are expected to boost our production of key commodities. Beyond 2012, we have a number of early stage and conceptual projects — La Granja copper, Simandou iron ore, Resolution copper and Sulawesi Nickel, for example. Exploration Looking even further ahead we have strong growth opportunities generated from our exploration activities, both greenfield and near mine. This is the most cost effective way of acquiring quality assets, and we are very good at it. It is often our ability to think creatively about an existing asset or a known prospect, which unlocks the opportunity to create value. Resolution, Simandou, Potasio Rio Colorado and La Granja would be good recent examples. The recently announced one billion tonne Chapudi coal resource in South Africa could be a future example. Continues Page 8 of 10 Based on our portfolio of projects, we estimate that the compound annual growth rate of our volumes from 2008 to 2015 is over eight per cent per annum. This is based on the volume growth rate of our individual products indexed into comparable monetary equivalents using consensus long term prices. This equates to growth in value, which is the key driver of Rio Tinto. Volume growth from competitively positioned assets at a time of strong demand will lead to substantially enhanced returns for shareholders. All our investments must pass a rigorous appraisal discipline before they are approved. As I’ve said, we are in a unique position with strong demand for everything we produce — and we have the operations, prospects and capabilities to deliver this growth. Our current position in each of our three main products is very strong. We have large scale if not leading positions in each one of them, with competitive operational costs in the first or lower second quartiles. We have an excellent set of growth opportunities, with the potential to double or even treble the production of our key commodities. Conclusion Rio Tinto is therefore perfectly positioned to take advantage of the opportunities afforded by markets that are expected to remain strong for decades to come. We remain totally focused on value and I am resolved to make the business work faster at meeting the world’s growing demand, better at leading and shaping our industry, and smarter at creating value for our shareholders. Our 2007 results show that our growth is accelerating. Our planned investments are targeted to maintain this momentum. Rio Tinto is about value. The value will come from leveraging our assets, our prospects, and our organisation in a very strong market environment, while continuing our commitment to safety, and adhering to our sustainable development principles. And ultimately the value we create will belong to you our shareholders. About Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed public company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is a public company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Rio Tinto’s business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa. Forward-Looking Statements Continues Page 9 of 10 achievements of Rio Tinto, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding Rio Tinto’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which Rio Tinto will operate in the future. Among the important factors that could cause Rio Tinto’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among others, levels of actual production during any period, levels of demand and market prices, the ability to produce and transport products profitably, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on market prices and operating costs, operational problems, political uncertainty and economic conditions in relevant areas of the world, the actions of competitors, activities by governmental authorities such as changes in taxation or regulation and such other risk factors identified in Rio Tinto’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) or Form 6-Ks furnished to the SEC. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking (except as required by applicable law, the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the “ Takeover Code ”), the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Rio Tinto’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily match or exceed its historical published earnings per share. Subject to the requirements of the Takeover Code, none of Rio Tinto, any of its officers or any person named in this announcement with their consent or any person involved in the preparation of this announcement makes any representation or warranty (either express or implied) or gives any assurance that the implied values, anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in forward-looking statements contained in this announcement will be achieved. Continues Page 10 of 10 For further information, please contact: Media Relations, Australia Amanda Buckley Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3627 Mobile: +61 (0) 419 801 349 Media Relations, London Christina Mills Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1154 Mobile: +44 (0) 7825 275 605 Ian Head Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3620 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 360 101 Nick Cobban Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 1138 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 041 003 Media Relations, Americas Nancy Ives Mobile: +1 619 540 3751 Investor Relations, Australia Dave Skinner Office: +61 (0) 3 9283 3628 Mobile: +61 (0) 408 335 309 Investor Relations, London Nigel Jones Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2049 Mobile: +44 (0) 7917 227365 Simon Ellinor Office: +61 (0) 7 3867 1607 Mobile: +61 (0) 439 102 811 David Ovington Office: +44 (0) 20 7781 2051 Mobile: +44 (0) 7920 010 978 Investor Relations, North America Jason Combes Office: +1 (0) 801 685 4535 Mobile: +1 (0) 801 558 2645 Email: [email protected] Website: www.riotinto.com High resolution photographs available at: www.newscast.co.uk Exhibit 99.10 Rio Tinto plc 2 Eastbourne Terrace London W2 6LG United Kingdom T +44 (0) 20 7781 2000 F +44 (0) 20 7781 1800 Press release Poll results for Rio Tinto plc & Rio Tinto Limited — AGM 2008 RIO TINTO PLC Held on Thursday, 17 April 2008 at 11.00 am Churchill Auditorium, The Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre Broad Sanctuary London SW1 United Kingdom RIO TINTO LIMITED Held on Thursday, 24 April 2008 at 9.30am Ballroom Le Grand, Level 2, Sofitel Brisbane 249 Turbot Street Brisbane Queensland In accordance with the Combined Code provision D.2.2 as revised (June 2006) by the Financial Reporting Council, the votes held on a poll were cast as follows: Joint Electorate Decisions The following ordinary resolutions, which were put to Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto Limited shareholders on a poll at the respective annual general meetings, were subject to the joint electoral procedure and the aggregate results of the joint polls were as follows: RESOLUTION To receive the financial statements and the reports of the directors and auditors for the full year ended 31 December 2007 (1) FOR (3) 770,670,941 % 99.90 AGAINST 738,091 % VOTE WITHHELD 0.10 354,114 1.03 15,943,341 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 771,629,512 votes were voted by proxy appointments Approval of the Remuneration report (1) 748,025,964 98.97 7,792,951 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 756,041,020 votes were voted by proxy appointments In respect of the above resolution, a total of 771,598,884 votes were voted by proxy appointments Continues Page 2 of 3 RESOLUTION Re-election of Vivienne Cox (1) FOR (3) 761,940,951 % 98.91 AGAINST 8,394,394 % VOTE WITHHELD 1.09 1,429,150 1.21 1,554,719 0.47 375,036 0.3 0 611,178 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 770,554,864 votes were voted by proxy appointments Re-election of Richard Goodmanson 760,906,366 (1) 98.79 9,303,042 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 770,428,790 votes were voted by proxy appointments Re-election of Paul Skinner (1) 767,753,446 99.53 3,633,754 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 771,594,500 votes were voted by proxy appointments Re-appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditors of Rio Tinto plc and to authorise the Audit committee to determine their remuneration (1) 768,847,567 99.70 2,304,228 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 771,361,609 votes were voted by proxy appointments Resolutions put to the Rio Tinto plc meeting only RESOLUTION Approval of the use of ecommunications for shareholder materials (2) FOR (3) 625,836,411 % 99.91 AGAINST 533,922 % VOTE WITHHELD 0.09 649,615 0.99 623,899 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 626,823,270 votes were voted by proxy appointments Authority to allot relevant securities under Section 80 of the Companies Act 1985 (2) 620,178,335 99.01 6,231,152 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 626,854,903 votes were voted by proxy appointments Articles of Association (2) In respect of the above resolution, a total of 625,418,042 votes were voted by proxy appointments Continues Page 3 of 3 Resolution put to both the Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto Limited meetings Class Rights Action As a Class Rights Action, the following Special Resolution was passed separately at the Rio Tinto plc and at the Rio Tinto Limited meetings. Under the dual listed companies structure, both resolutions require approval by shareholders for either resolution to be deemed passed and take effect. The result of the poll at the Rio Tinto plc meeting was as follows: RESOLUTION Amendments to the terms of the DLC Dividend Shares (1) FOR (3) 625,839,804 % 99.96 AGAINST 247,844 % 0.04 VOTE WITHHELD 909,613 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 626,557,898 votes were voted by proxy appointments The result of the poll at the Rio Tinto Limited meeting was as follows: RESOLUTION Amendments to the terms of the DLC Dividend Shares (1) FOR (3) 144,021,112 % 99.80 AGAINST 294,682 % 0.20 VOTE WITHHELD 414,014 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 144,095,629 votes were voted by proxy appointments Resolutions put to the Rio Tinto Limited meeting only RESOLUTION Renewal of on-market share buyback authorities FOR (3) 143,692,916 % 99.84 AGAINST 233,822 % VOTE WITHHELD 0.16 804,001 0.14 810,944 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 143,705,642 votes were voted by proxy appointments Renewal of authorities to buy back shares held by Rio Tinto plc 143,718,040 99.86 200,352 In respect of the above resolution, a total of 143,697,296 votes were voted by proxy appointments Notes 997,914,806. (6) Total number of Rio Tinto Limited shares with voting rights in issue at 9.30am on 24 April 2008 was 456,815,943.