MPs demand probe into forging claims.

FINANCIAL and legal authorities are being pressed by MPs to probe allegations concerning banks potentially forging signatures.

Nicky Morgan, who chairs the Treasury Committee, has written to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and National Crime Agency (NCA), requesting they investigate as appropriate.

There have been allegations that home repossessions and other documents may not have been signed by the authorised signatory.

Andrew Bailey, chief executive of the FCA, was previously asked about allegations of potential criminal activity occurring at banks, in June, during an evidence session.

He said at the time: "If you would like to bring the evidence to us, we will look at it."

In her letter to Mr Bailey, Ms Morgan says: "Given the nature of the allegations, the Committee requests that you engage with the Bank Signature Forgery Campaign directly to review the evidence they have, and you take action as you think appropriate."

The campaign is encouraging personal and business customers who have received a bank court document from UK banks or finance companies to send it a photo or photocopy of the bank signature.

A similar letter has been written by Ms Morgan to Lynne Owens, director general of the NCA.

A spokeswoman for trade association UK Finance said: "We urge anyone with evidence of forgery taking place to report it to their bank, as well as the relevant authorities."