Sports Direct Boss: 'We Have Nothing To Hide'

Sports Direct boss Mike Ashley has insisted he has "nothing to hide" as he prepares to face a Commons committee later.

The Newcastle United owner had previously said he was not able to appear Commons Business, Innovation and Skills committee.

But over the weekend he agreed to take part in the session where he will face questions over the treatment of workers at his leisurewear group.

Mr Ashley, who was facing a Parliamentary summons, said he had since decided that a "lengthy legal battle would be of no benefit to either of us".

In a letter to the committee chairman Iain Wright , Mr Ashley said: "I am mindful of your statement to the press on Friday in which you question whether or not Sports Direct has anything to hide.

"I can assure you that nothing is further from the truth. I believe my repeated invitations for you to attend Shirebrook are a clear demonstration that in fact we have nothing to hide.

"I was merely seeking to avoid an unnecessary media circus.

"However, after much reflection over the last 48 hours, I have concluded that a lengthy legal battle would be of no benefit to either of us.

"It (Other OTC: ITGL - news) would also no doubt lead to further unwarranted accusations that I am being secretive, whereas in fact I have been open and honest at every stage of this process.

"I have therefore reconsidered my position and I am writing to confirm that I will now be attending Parliament on Tuesday in order to defend the good name of Sports Direct on behalf of all of the great people who work here."

Mr Wright said he was pleased that Mr Ashley has "finally agreed to give evidence".

"As a committee, we want to get a sense of the genuine and balanced picture at Sports Direct and establish whether there are issues for the wider economy which need further examination, such as the status and rights of agency workers (Other OTC: UBGXF - news) ."