Ashley hits out at politicians and landlords ahead of committee hearing

Mike Ashley today lashed out at politicians for failing Britain’s beleaguered high streets, as he demanded an audience with MPs in Westminster next month.

The retail billionaire and Newcastle United owner, who has recently acquired House of Fraser and Evans Cycles, called on both politicians and landlords to do more to help struggling retail outlets.

In a flavour of what is to come when Ashley appears in front of a parliamentary committee next month, the magnate said: "Since we acquired House of Fraser, we've been working around the clock to save as many stores and jobs as possible. I believe politicians and landlords should be doing more to save our struggling high streets, so I intend to make the most of this opportunity to make a real difference."

A spokesman for Sports Direct added: "The MPs originally wanted somebody from House of Fraser to speak for about 15 minutes as part of a panel of four, and said they didn't mind who it was. Mike thought that wouldn't achieve anything, so instead he demanded to go along in person for a full hour."

Ashley also confirmed his plans to appear at the housing, communities and local government select committee, which he is to attend for a full hour after MPs initially invited a representative for House of Fraser to speak for 15 minutes, according to a Sports Direct spokesperson.

A representative told Sky News that Ashley was believed to feel Hammond’s business rate relief announced in the budget was a token gesture and the "work of a child".