Serious Fraud Office probes PC Science

Exclusive The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is investigating PC Science, the Yorkshire manufacturer that went into receivership earlier this month. The SFO said the case had been referred to them by North Yorkshire police on 9 June. The investigation, which is being handled in conjunction with North Yorkshire police, started on 13 July. The investigation will be seeking to determine if there have been any criminal undertakings in the running of the business or in its demise. A representative of the SFO would not say if the investigation was focused on the business itself or its directors. A separate investigation by the DTI is also understood to be underway, but the DTI was unable to comment. PC Science's receivers, KPMG, said the Boroughbridge-based system builder was still looking for a buyer, though she admitted the enquiry would make a sale more difficult. PC Science is believed to have gone into receivership owing around £8 million. Last week, it laid off 150 staff, leaving a core staff of 30. ®