Vernon Coaker MP Labour’s Shadow Defence Secretary in response to the Serious Fraud Office’s confirmation that it is to launch a criminal investigation in to Serco, the company in a consortium bidding to be put in charge of the £15bn purchasing arm of the Ministry of Defence, said:

 

“Serco is now subject to a criminal investigation by the Serious Fraud Office.

 

“This raises huge questions about whether it can continue to be part of a consortium bidding to run GoCo - the proposed government-owned, contractor-operated entity that would run our country’s defence procurement.

 

“Defence Ministers didn’t give any answers about this in the House of Commons today (Monday). Neither did they give any indication as to when the Government’s own cross-departmental review of all public contracts held by Serco will be completed. 

 

“A company facing serious and criminal allegations is being considered for a crucial role in protecting and defending our nation. The Government needs to examine this carefully and reassure the British public that it is dealing with this development with the urgency and concern it merits.”