Paper tiger Mike Ashley needs to explain or face being torn apart by MPs

Sports Direct founder cannot risk carrying on with the bluster when he gives evidence on working conditions for warehouse staff

Mike Ashley is a paper tiger. Having said he would not show up to give evidence to the House of Commons business committee, the Sports Direct boss has changed his mind and now says he will grace MPs with his presence.

In truth, there was never the remotest possibility that Ashley would defy the will of parliament. Rupert Murdoch eventually deigned to make an appearance before a select committee, and to adapt Lloyd Bentsen's putdown of Dan Quayle, Ashley is no Rupert Murdoch.

Related: Questions Mike Ashley should answer on Sports Direct work conditions

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