§ Mrs. EllmanTo ask the Solicitor-General what discussions the Crown Prosecution Service has held with Merseyside police serious fraud squad concerning the investigation of the Walton Group in relation to Exchange Flags Liverpool; and if she will make a statement. [1697]
§ The Solicitor-GeneralThe Serious Fraud Office was consulted by the Merseyside police in October 2000 concerning allegations of fraud in relation to the Walton Group plc. An extended vetting inquiry followed including examination of available files and evidence as well as meetings with Merseyside police and English Partnerships.
After careful consideration, it was decided that there was insufficient evidence to justify an investigation under section 1 of the Criminal Justice Act 1987.