AGM Statement

Clarkson PLC
21 May 2002


                                  CLARKSON PLC



               CHAIRMAN'S COMMENTS MADE AT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

                                 ON 21 MAY 2002





At this point, I should like to make a short statement regarding your company's
current trading performance and the special business before the meeting. I will
then invite any questions that you may have.



You will be aware from my statement in the Report and Accounts that your
Company's performance last year was the strongest since it became a public
company in 1986. You will also be aware that I stated that the economic slowdown
in the second half of 2001 was expected to persist in 2002 and that it would
therefore be difficult to replicate last year's achievements in the immediate
future.



This has proved to be the case. Our results for the first quarter of this year
are at lower levels than last year but remain broadly in line with our
expectations and targets. The efforts of the past few years in generating
revenues for the future has made the group less exposed to volatile spot
earnings and your board remains confident for the future. Your Company continues
to trade profitability.



As we mark the Company's one hundred and fifty years of service to the shipping
industry, it is right to reflect on what has influenced and shaped Clarksons to
make it what it is today. However, anniversaries are also a time to look to the
future and to ensure that the business continues to develop. Your board is
confident that the ambition of providing a complete and transparent range of
Clarkson branded services, thereby enhancing the profile of shipping in the
public domain, is the correct one and one that will stand the Company in good
stead for the future.



In an industry where the quality of the personnel employed remains paramount to
maintaining competitive advantage, may I also take this opportunity, on your
behalf, to place on record our thanks to the staff and management, both here and
overseas, for their contribution in developing and growing our business.



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