Facing CBI probe, Rolls-Royce seeks meetings with Def Min

Facing a CBI probe for allegedly involving middlemen in its dealings with the state-owned HAL, British engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce has sought meetings with the top brass of the Defence Ministry where it is expected to discuss the corruption allegations against it.
The request for these meetings has come after the Defence Ministry under the previous UPA regime put on hold its dealings with the London-based firm when allegations emerged that it had engaged middlemen in the form of agents in its dealings with the aerospace PSU, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.
Senior officials of the British firm have now sought meetings with the top brass of the Defence Ministry, including the Defence Secretary and Secretary (Defence Production), in August following the conclusion of the Parliament session, Defence Ministry sources told PTI here.

They added that the Ministry has not yet decided on the request for meetings.
It is expected that the military and civilian engine manufacturer would present its views to the Indian defence establishment on the matter, they said.
Asked about its request for meetings with Defence Ministry officials, a Rolls-Royce spokesperson said, "We are cooperating with authorities in India. We will not tolerate improper business conduct of any sort. Rolls-Royce is a company that will not accept any behaviour that undermines its future success."
In its requests for meetings, Rolls-Royce has expressed its willingness to continue its cooperation with India in both the commercial and military aerospace sector.

Defence Ministry had ordered a CBI probe into Rolls- Royce's alleged hiring of middlemen in contracts with HAL, with which the British firm has transacted business of over Rs 10,000 crore in the past.