THE Government has ordered a fast-track investigation into directors at the failed outsourcing firm Carillion.

The UK's second biggest construction firm went into liquidation yesterday (Monday, January 16) after struggling against huge debts and a pension deficit.

Middlesbrough-born Business Secretary has now requested an investigation by the Official Receiver to be extended and sped up.

He said: "It is important we quickly get the full picture of the events which caused Carillion to enter liquidation, which is why I have asked the Insolvency Service to fast-track and broaden the scope of the Official Receiver’s investigation.

"In particular, I have asked the investigation looks not only at the conduct of the directors at the point of its insolvency, but also of any individuals who were previously directors.

"Any evidence of misconduct will be taken very seriously."

The role of Carillion's auditor KPMG will be examined by the Financial Reporting Council.