AEROSPACE giant BAE Systems has revealed it "continues to reject allegations being made against it" after the firm came under fresh scrutiny for its overseas dealings.

The government's solicitor general has publicly outlined a probe currently looking into BAE Systems' activities, which is said to include claims regarding the firm in South Africa, Tanzania, Romania, Chile, the Czech Republic and Qatar.

It has also been reported that MPs have been told that allegations of bribery and fraud in Bosnia, Nigeria, Zambia, Costa Rica and Egypt were also being investigated.

But BAE Systems, which employs thousands of East Lancashire worker at its Samlesbury plant, has slammed what it calls leaks and innuendo from the press and parliament.

A BAE spokesman said: "The Serious Fraud Office investigation has been ongoing for three years. While this continues, the law prevents us from defending ourselves.

"The company continues to reject allegations being made against it, but any substantive comment on matters under investigation would be contempt of court and could prejudice our legal position.

"BAE Systems has strong ethical code driven by values and supported by benchmark processes and by appropriate training, led from the top by the chairman and chief executive.

"External review has confirmed our ethics code reflects best practice in defence and other industries."

Late last year the Serious Fraud Office dropped an investigation into claims surrounding BAE Systems' dealings with the Saudi Arabian government, saying it could threaten national security.

It had been feared such an investigation could affect jobs at the firm.

The spokesman added: "BAE Systems is both surprised and disappointed that some recent media coverage is proceeding on the assumption, unsupported by any evidence, that allegations against it are true and offences have been committed."