From: Frank G Brandenberg, Vice-President & General Manager, Computer Systems Group, Unisys Corp, Blue Bell, PA 19424.
I would like to correct a news item in your July 27 issue, based on a Reuters report from Seoul, South Korea. Unisys was one of several companies approached by the Korean government on the subject of licensing mainframe-class computer technology for their market. In the past, they have initiated similar projects at the micro and mid-range level. We already have a presence in Korea and expanding that presence is of interest to us. Discussions continue with no agreement completed. I can say emphatically that your assertion that we have turned to the Korean government for cash to develop future generations of machines has absolutely no foundation in truth and is potentially damaging to us. Our product lines have never been stronger and our long-term plans for them, including the successful A Series, are funded and on track.
From: Sean Kennedy, John Fowler & Partners Ltd, Ashbourn House, Stockport, Cheshire, SK4 5DA.
Your reference to my client Ferranti in your August 4 issue quotes struggling Ferranti International Plc. I think this is unfair when the company has achieved so much in the last year through its recovery programme. Not only is operating loss down to UKP26.9m from UKP83.7m last year, but also net borrowings have been reduced to UKP66.5m from UKP94.8m last year. At the time of the crisis, borrowings were just under UKP900m. Despite the current uncertain business climate, orders won exceed UKP240m bringing the outstanding order book at 31 March 1992 to UKP272.1m. I think struggling is a bit harsh to describe the company. Do you agree?
