Closure of an external investigation concerning the European Social Funds in UK

The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has closed an external investigation into serious irregularities liable to have been committed in the framework of the activities of the "Welsh Joint Education Committee (WJEC) European Unit" concerning European Social Fund subsidies.

OLAF' inquiries have been carried out in co-operation with a number of administrative and police authorities in the United Kingdom. 'On-the-spot' checks have also been carried out.

OLAF has forwarded the results of its investigation to the Serious Fraud Office <http://www.sfo.gov.uk> (United Kingdom) as well as to the competent administrative authority in the United Kingdom (Department for Work and Pensions) so that these bodies can undertake all necessary measures.

This Press Release has been published following numerous requests for information by the British media in recent weeks. Its goal is to clarify this issue from the OLAF perspective and to avoid any misunderstanding.

OLAF wishes to make it clear that information obtained in the course of its investigations is protected by the relevant Community and national provisions. Accordingly no further comment will be made by the Office concerning this investigation.

Mr Alessandro Butticé
Spokesman of the European Anti-fraud Office (OLAF)
Tel : +32 (0)2 296.5425
Fax : +32 (0)2 299.8101