Balli Group plc - an apology

Contrary to the impression given by the headline to the Pandora column on 13 June, the Temporary Denial Order imposed by the US Department of Commerce on a number of companies including Balli Group plc does not relate to arms but to passenger airplanes. We accept that the matter has nothing whatsoever to do with arms and we apologise to them and to Lord Lamont for this error. Balli Group plc's position is that the decision to issue the Order was based on inaccurate information, it has instructed attorneys to appeal against the Order and is fully cooperating with the Department's enquiries. We will pay substantial damages which Balli Group plc are donating to the British Museum.