The Serious Fraud Office has opened a criminal investigation into allegations of fraud, bribery and corruption in the civil aviation business of Airbus.
The French-based group announced the probe last night and said it is co-operating with the British authorities.
Airbus said the investigation relates “to irregularities concerning third party consultants”.
Four months ago UK Export Finance stopped funding the company until it could provide assurances over its arrangements with “overseas agents”.
It represents a further blow to the aircraft manufacturer which revealed an extra €1.4bn hit in its half-year profits last month from problems with its A400M military transport plane and its A350 airline. It still managed to increase profits, however, despite that cost.
Airbus’ international subsidiaries have been subject to, to date unsubstantiated, claims of corruption for several years.
In 2010 allegations were made in relation to a £2bn deal to upgrade the Saudi National Guard’s intranet system and give it an electronic warfare capability.
Airbus’ shares have fallen 15.7pc so far this year.
The Telegraph
United-Kingdom launches fraud investigation into Airbus
