Mike Ashley has said that he intends to defend his company’s “good name” before the Business, Innovation and Skills select committee on Tuesday.

Mr Ashley had previously refused to appear in front of MPs in order to “avoid a media circus”.
Committee chairman Iain Wright said he looked forward to Mr Ashley responding to "serious allegations" over working conditions at the company’s Shirebrook headquarters.

Criticism of the firm includes allegations that staff are “too scared” to call in sick, with ambulances called out to the Derbyshire complex 76 times in two years for "life-threatening" illnesses.

In a letter to MPs, Mr Ashley writes: "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 would 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."