Consent of Independent Auditors



We  consent  to the  reference  to our  firm  under  the  captions  "Independent
Auditors" and to the use of our reports  dated  February 9, 2001 with respect to
Principal Life Insurance  Company  Separate  Account B and February 2, 2001 with
respect to Principal  Life  Insurance  Company,  in the  Registration  Statement
(Post-Effective   Amendment  No. 17  to  Form  N-4  No.  33-74232)  and  related
Prospectus  of Principal  Life  Insurance  Company  Separate  Account B Flexible
Variable Annuity Contract.



/s/ Ernst & Young LLP


Des Moines, Iowa
April 24, 2001