Accident group staff 'urged fake claims'

The accident firm "does not condone" fraud by staff

An investigation by the BBC's Watchdog programme has revealed some staff at the Manchester-based Accident Group are asking people to pursue bogus compensation claims.

The revelations came to light after a Tameside man was asked to fill out a form for a false claim.

The company said it does not condone fraud by the public or members of staff and will take legal action if it discovers it is taking place.

Tameside Council has now asked the police to look into whether false compensation claims have been made against it in the past.

'Claims culture'

The council's cabinet first deputy, Peter Joinson, said people should not allow themselves to be persuaded to make fraudulent claims.

He told BBC GMR on Wednesday: "Were it a genuine claim then yes go on and claim.

"Were it a bogus one people themselves should take on a sense of responsibility and not move in to the claims culture.

"But unfortunately it seems to be a general habit that the population as a whole tend to be picking up."