Nothing in Particular Part 2

[wumpletoad]

Ribbett, ribbett.

For the second time this year, my hibernation has been disturbed by the ever-solicitous computer seeking news of my welfare.
"You do not seem to miss us as much as we miss you . . ." This is hurtful - particularly when those fastback, distinctive rear number plate lights seldom are far from my thoughts.

But now that I'm awake, I have a couple of questions:

1 I have long thought that Jowett were put out of business by Ford's purchase of Briggs Motor Bodies. As Briggs had been in Dagenham since before Ford moved there, an obvious reason for the acquisition some 20 years later might have been to spitefully sink a (not really) competitive manufacturer. The same would have applied to Lanchester but BSA/Daimler were quite capable of sinking their own company without needing the loss of Briggs bodies to assist in that. Anyone familiar with the biographies of the repellant Henry Ford would easily make this connection.

Anyway, what was/were the real reason/s?

2 What is the preferred pronunciation of "Jowett"?
Is it Joe-ett or is it Jau-ett? Perhaps it depends upon which school you went to.

Answers quickly please as I am anxious to get back to sleep.

Ribbett, ribbett.