POLICE look set to launch an investigation into the activities of a North-East woman involved in the adoption of babies.

Jay Carter, of Skelton, east Cleveland, was criticised by High Court judge Mr Justice Munby who lifted a ban on her identification in the public interest.

But the 51-year-old mother claimed that she had been made into a scapegoat and said she had a clear conscience.

Mrs Carter also said she had worked within the law and that she continues to work in the adoption field.

She said that she worked for Cots (Childlessness Overcome Through Surrogacy) providing advice and support to surrogate mothers and couples who want a surrogate baby.

Mrs Carter, who admits she has no professional qualifications, was involved in a case where a black American woman was paid $1,000 (£624) to hand over her newborn daughter to an adoption agency.

A white British couple had remortgaged their home to raise £18,500 to pay for the baby, which a US judge allowed to be brought to the UK.

The High Court heard glowing reports about the couple from Mrs Carter who said she had no hesitation in recommending an adoption order should be granted.

But far from being fit and healthy, the woman was suffering from cancer and has since committed suicide, with her fifth husband abandoning all responsibility for the young girl.

The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed that it has received a copy of Mr Justice Munby's judgement in the case.

He had condemned people who run "businesses to make money out of trading in human beings and human misery".

A CPS spokesman said it was quite likely that the judgement would be passed on to police with a view to investigating Mrs Carter.

They would decide if there was enough evidence for charges to be brought or whether no further action should be taken.

Mrs Carter, who lives in Skelton with husband Robin, was involved in the failed attempt by Judith and Alan Kilshaw to adopt American twins.

She said: "I have been made a scapegoat.

"I know this is a tragic case and this child has been left without parents."

She said she was paid less than £100 a week for surrogacy work and about £5 an hour for keeping in monthly telephone contact with her clients.

She said she had helped 170 couples and 110 surrogate mothers.