Contrary to recent misunderstandings in the Danish and foreign media, the LEGO Company will not halt production and marketing of LEGO� TECHNIC(TM) BIONICLE(TM) products.

Because the current BIONICLE line incorporates some words of cultural meaning to the Maori, the LEGO Company is developing a Code of Conduct to ensure the utmost sensitivity to cultural groups. There has been a positive meeting in New Zealand, where Maori representatives have expressed interest in participating in the process.

The LEGO Company has agreed that future products in the BIONICLE line will not incorporate names from any original culture, however, we did not agree to halt production of the line.

Following is a comment from Roma Hippolite, CEO Ngati Koata Trust and representative of the Maori people:

"Ngati Koata express regret that reported comments following a recent meeting between Maori groups in New Zealand and representatives of LEGO have been incorrect. During that meeting we were advised that the LEGO Company would withdraw the Maori names from future TECHNIC BIONICLE range of toys while at the same time continuing to market those products. We have been impressed by the willingness of LEGO to recognise a hurt was inadvertently made, and show that in their actions. We are also excited to be able to work with such a respected multinational company to develop a Code of Conduct to recognise Maori and other indigenous interests. We feel very positive that commercial and cultural interests can exist in the world marketplace."