Donald Trump dossier: What we know about British ex-spy Christopher Steele and Orbis firm linked to file
The business partner of the former MI6 officer linked to the alleged Donald Trump dossier has refused to confirm to ITV News whether their intelligence company compiled the controversial file.
Here's what we know about the ex-spy and the company at the centre of the allegations:
The man behind the dossier?
Ex-spy Christopher Steele was named in reports as the man behind the explosive 35-page document on Mr Trump.
The file includes unverified allegations that Russian security officials have compromising material that could be used to blackmail the US president-elect.
Video report by ITV News Security Editor Rohit Kachroo
The 52-year-old Mr Steele, who was posted to Moscow in 1990, runs London-based Orbis Business Intelligence.
He has reportedly left his Surrey home after becoming aware his name would be linked to the dossier.
What is Orbis?
Orbis Business Intelligence is a corporate intelligence company founded in 2009 by former British intelligence professionals.
Mr Steele runs it with his business partner, Christopher Parker Burrows, who formerly worked for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as a counsellor.
The firm boasts access to a "global network" of experts and "prominent business figures".
What does Orbis do?
The company's website says: "We provide strategic advice, mount intelligence-gathering operations and conduct complex, often cross-border investigations."
The firm, based in upmarket Grosvenor Gardens, says it "draws on extensive experience at boardroom level in government, multilateral diplomacy and international business to develop bespoke solutions for clients".
It goes on: "Our tailored approach means the directors are closely involved in the execution and detail of every project, supported by an in-house team of experienced investigators and professional intelligence analysts."
The website adds: Ethical business practice is a fundamental value for the Orbis Business Intelligence team. Our documented procedures, developed in conjunction with external legal counsel, ensure compliance with relevant UK, US and EU legislation."
How has the company responded to the reports?
Mr Burrows told ITV News Correspondent Dan Rivers it was not "appropriate" for him to respond to the reports or comment on Orbis' alleged involvement in the dossier.
He said: "I think in the light of everything that has happened over the last 24 hours I don't think it would be appropriate for me to make any comment at the moment on what's happened and whether Orbis has been involved or not.
Mr Burrows added: "We'll review that situation over the next couple of days."