The allegations came to light in the 11 December issue of Mortgage Introducer - News.
The firm’s managing director Hamish Haddow has also said that Thomas Reeh, chief executive officer of The Black and White Group who claimed to have seen the operation first hand, had never visited the firm.
However Reeh has stood by his claims, insisting he visited Solus in Cape Town.
Haddow explained that Solus used consumer questionnaires as a way of contacting potential clients in the UK.
He said: “Regulation does allow mortgage brokers to continue to use legitimate lead generation techniques, such as consumer questionnaires (the technique that Solus use), providing consumers with a clear understanding of how their data is being used and, consent to being approached by a mortgage or financial firm (each call made by Solus seeks to obtain this consent).
“Every call, and all data, is recorded for FSA purposes and quality assurance. In essence, Solus adheres to all of the above during our research questionnaires.
“We assure you that we are a professional company who adhere to all regulations, irrespective of where it is incorporated, and work within the ambit of fair and transparent business principles.”
Chris Cummings, director of the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI) said: “Research is a valid way of collecting data and getting an informed opt-in - so long as the customer knows the name of the firm that may call them and opts-in to that firm calling.
“Where there is more than one firm, the customer should have the opportunity to decline contact by some or all.”
