Treasure hunter sells galleon's riches: Correction: Mr Rex Cowan

The Independent regrets the description of Mr Rex Cowan, the historic shipwreck explorer, as a 'treasure hunter' in an article published on 20 May.

Any implication that Mr Cowan is solely interested in the commercial value of his finds, at the expense of any archaeological interest, is withdrawn with apologies. The Independent is happy to acknowledge Mr Cowan's reputation as a serious explorer meriting his position among other things as government appointee to the United Kingdom advisory committee on historic wreck sites.