Apple, Dell, HP Comment on Foxconn Suicides

A lot of computer companies outsource work to Foxconn and given the recent news reports regarding the assembly plant, some of the bigger names are eager to make their opinions on the matter heard.

HP, Apple and Dell have all released statements offering condolences as well and say they are looking into the matter. Apple's Steve Dowling told Bloomberg that the Cupertino-based company was "saddened and upset" by the suicides.

"We are saddened and upset by the recent suicides at Foxconn. We're in direct contact with Foxconn senior management and we believe they are taking this matter very seriously. A team from Apple is independently evaluating the steps they are taking to address these tragic events and we will continue our ongoing inspections of the facilities where our products are made."

Dell has offered a similar statement and said the company expects Foxconn to employ the same standards Dell does in its own factory.

"We expect our suppliers to employ the same high standards we do in our own facilities. We enforce these standards through a variety of tools, including the Electronics Industry code of conduct, business reviews with suppliers, self-assessments and audits."

Further word from a spokesperson reveals Dell is also investigating the situation.

"Any reports of poor working conditions in Dell’s supply chain are investigated," Jess Blackburn, a spokesman for Dell, said in an email to Bloomberg. "We expect our suppliers to employ the same high standards we do."

HP is also investigating "the Foxconn practices that may be associated with these tragic events."

The news comes as reports suggest the number of suicides at the Foxconn factory has risen to 15.