01/10/2009

BAE To Face Corruption Charges

UK defence contractor BAE Systems is to be investigated on corruption charges, the Serious Fraud Office has announced.

The SFO confirmed on Thursday that it intends to ask Attorney General Baroness Scotland's consent to prosecute BAE for offices relating to overseas corruption.

The move follows an investigation by the SFO into the company's business activities in Africa and Eastern Europe.

It is understood that the investigation involved contracts won by BAE in countries such as Tanzania, the Czech Republic, Romania and South Africa.

Any criminal charges would be brought against the company under the 2001 Prevention of Corruption Act.

The SFO said that it will prepare its papers to be submitted to Baroness Scotland when it considers it is ready to proceed.

(KMcA/BMcC)

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