An exposé by PETA found that goats on cashmere farms in China and Mongolia suffer tremendous abuse in order to make clothing items such as sweaters and scarves. 90% of the world's cashmere comes from these two countries. 

The goats scream in fear as their fur is torn out, and they suffer wounds and injuries at the hands of workers. They are not given adequate veterinary care, and are killed when they are no longer profitable. 

I contacted Marks & Spencer to ask where they source their cashmere products from, and I was advised that it does indeed come from China and Mongolia. 

Marks & Spencer have a list of policies for the welfare of animals used for clothing and home products. 

The treatment of these goats clearly goes against these very policies, in particular:

Freedom from Discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area

Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment

Freedom from Fear and Distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering

I want to support shops that are cruelty-free, and Marks & Spencer has many other options for clothing and home materials such as cotton, tencel, and so on. Treat cashmere goats with kindness and compassion and end the use of cashmere now!

Sources:

https://investigations.peta.org/cashmere-cruelty-china-mongolia/​

https://corporate.marksandspencer.com/sustainability/clothing-and-home/product-standards/non-food-animal-welfare