She had triggered two informal investigations of the matter after she tried to duplicate some of the work in question and was unable to do so.

This might be an informal, unofficial investigation, but that was no reason not to do things properly.

The S.E.C. also has started an informal investigation into the issue.

In fact, a highly informal investigation recently uncovered just two instances of local seaweed harvested for local use.

And an Andersen partner admitted to erasing Enron e-mail messages just before the firm became aware of an informal investigation.

Greater use was also made of informal investigations to secure redress for complainants.

The ducal couple were exposed to an informal investigation by the monarch, and the duchess was questioned in the presence of the royal council.

Beazer was placed under an informal investigation in May 2007.

The shift from an informal investigation to a formal one means the S.E.C. has the power to subpoena documents or other evidence.

We can do this by adding 'allegations of the existence' to the English version and deleting 'but also to undertake informal investigations' from it.