Markel International, the international property and casualty insurer, today announced and celebrated the first official day of trading for its Canadian branch, MINT Canadian Speciality Underwriters (MCSU).

MCSU will write business through Markel Syndicate 3000 at Lloyd’s. Initially MCSU will focus on products liability, errors and omissions and specified medical professional/allied healthcare, with a view to broaden its product offering over time.  
 
Barrett Hubbard, Managing Director of MCSU, said: “This is a fabulous opportunity for Markel and insurance buyers across Canada.  Lloyd's has tremendous franchise value and is held in especially high regard in Canada. Our view is that strong underwriting expertise combined with the Lloyd's name provides a tremendous platform from which to begin our marketing and production efforts.”
 
Gerry Albanese, President and Chief Operating Officer of Markel International said: “When Markel came to London five years ago, we were clear that we planned to build a truly international business based in this unique market. The global Lloyd’s franchise means that, from London, we can do business in Canada that we would be unable to underwrite through Markel Corporation. We are very excited about the opportunities we see in the Canadian market, where we will have the ability to offer a range of specialty products developed in London and in the US, all written through our Lloyd’s syndicate. “

Julian James, Director of Worldwide Markets at Lloyd’s said: “Lloyd’s offers a unique vehicle for underwriting risk world wide. Markel’s plans in Canada show just how valuable this franchise can be.”

For further information:
Derah McCall 
Markel International
+ 44 (0)20 7953 6732

Notes to editors:
1. Markel International Limited is a specialty property and casualty insurer. Based in London and comprising the international operations of Markel Corporation, it wrote gross premiums in 2004 of $ 746 million. It has five operating divisions writing business either through Markel Syndicate 3000 or through Markel International Insurance Company Limited.
2. Markel Corporation markets and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs for a variety of niche markets.  In each of these markets, the Company seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader.  The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value.