a. The factories that we use do not simply "churn" out clothing - I also note with interest that the Splashdown clothing made in the UK was of a better quality than that currently being made in the Far East! The factories that we use are of a high quality with high quality machinists and procedures. With the same high standards of quality control as European factories the end result is also comparable - as a brand we do not accept sub standard quality no matter where the location of it's manufacture.

Ironically with regards to quality one can argue that the use of relatively low labour rates in comparison to UK labour means that quality can actually be improved. As more money is available for more detailed engineering of a garment and higher performance fabrics can be incorporated whilst maintaining price points.

b. The second point here is that the factories we use do not produce clothing for any of our competitors in the marine world.

2. Finally the "inscrutable smile" comment that Henri Lloyd and Musto are smiling equally broadly assumes that we only produce in the Far East - You may be surprised to know that Henri Lloyd still produces all of it's Ocean and Offshore foul weather gear in our own factory within the EU!

As a company that has invested in Global markets we are proud to have such a diverse and flexible manufacturing/sourcing network as it ensures we remain competitive and allows our continued growth and increasing UK employment whilst maintaining our international reputation for quality.

Yours sincerely, Graham Allen Marketing Director Henri Lloyd