Serious Fraud Office opens criminal investigation into Airbus
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has opened a criminal investigation into Airbus Group.
The body said it was probing allegations of fraud, bribery and corruption at the company.
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The SFO called for anyone with relevant information to come forward.
A statement said: “The director of the Serious Fraud Office has opened a criminal investigation into allegations of fraud, bribery and corruption in the civil aviation business of Airbus Group.
“These allegations relate to irregularities concerning third party consultants.”
The company said in a statement: "Airbus Group has been informed by the SFO that it has opened a criminal investigation into allegations of fraud, bribery and corruption in the civil aviation business of Airbus Group relating to irregularities concerning third party consultants.
"Airbus Group continues to cooperate with the SFO."
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Earlier this year, UK Export Finance suspended the issue of export credits to Airbus. It cited discrepancies in declarations by the company on the use of third-party intermediaries in jet sale negotiations. The government agency said at the time that it would refer the discrepancies to the SFO.
French and German agencies have halted export credits to the company also, Reuters reported.