The Dutch Lower House wants an investigation to be launched into the DSB bank. On Monday evening three anonymous former employees told NOS public television current affairs programme NOVA that the bank uses banned sales practices.

The bank allegedly had a policy to persuade customers to take out unnecessary and expensive single premium insurance policies, making a profit of 1.6 billion euros. The insurance policies which are linked to loans, are often unnecessary because people are already covered or are far too expensive.

The bank has refused to respond to the allegations.

During a financial debate in the Lower House on Tuesday evening, opposition parties demanded an investigation into the bank’s dealings.

According to the ANP, Socialist Party MP Ewout Irrgang called the practice “legal theft” and said the government had a “moral responsibility” on behalf of duped customers. The Green Left called for the role of former Finance Minister Gerrit Zalm to be investigated, as he was director of the DSB bank before joining the ABN Amro bank. “If Zalm really did know all about this, his position is untenable.” Said Green Left MP Jolande Sap.

The conservative VVD, however, found it “unsavoury” to suggest the Mr Zalm might be involved at this stage. It wants the Financial Markets Authority to investigate the allegations.

The authority already fined the bank in the spring for errors made in advising its clients and mortgage applications. It announced back then that it would be investigating the banks financial services.

Finance Minister Wouter Bos is expected to react to the request on Wednesday.

DSB bank sponsors a number of sports including Dutch premier football league champions AZ.