Sports Direct chief’s ultimatum to MPs

OXFORD University is older than the Aztec Empire MPs are to consider a letter from Sports Direct boss Mike Ashley agreeing to be questioned about his company, as long as the politicians visit the firm’s head office first.

The Business Select Committee has been trying to quiz Ashley for months about working practices, including the use of zero hours contracts.

The 51-year-old has been refusing to appear before the committee – but in a letter he said he will travel to Westminster, but only on condition that the MPs visit the Sports Direct offices in Shirebrook, Derbyshire, the day before.

The Newcastle United owner has even offered to fly the MPs to Derbyshire in his helicopter.

The committee will discuss the letter at its meeting next week.