§ Mr. Clifton-BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what recent financial irregularities in the Department have been 787W brought to his attention in the last three months; for how long investigations have been conducted; what action has been taken in response; and what external auditors or other advisers will be appointed to investigate. [34474]
§ Dr. WhiteheadI am aware of five investigations which have commenced in the last three months, all of which are on-going. All are being led by appropriately qualified staff in the Department, agency or non-departmental public body concerned. Where necessary, the in-house resource will be supplemented by expert advice.
It is too soon to say what the outcomes will be. In each case the evidence will be weighed carefully and, where appropriate, further action, which may include reference to the police, will be initiated.