June 27, 2016

MPs grill businessman over working practices

Retail boss Mike Ashley appeared before MPs earlier this month, answering questions on employment practices at his business.

Mr Ashley, who founded Sports Direct, was grilled by the parliamentary committee following allegations about the treatment of staff.

During the hearing, Mr Ashley admitted that workers at the firm’s Derbyshire warehouse had been paid below the minimum wage.

He told MPs that an internal investigation had discovered “some issues” with working practices at the facility and that he hoped these had been dealt with.

“I can accept the criticism of some of the things that you've said to me today,” said Mr Ashley.

Questions were also put to the businessman about an alleged culture of fear at the warehouse.

An undercover investigation had previously uncovered evidence of vigorous security searches and severe penalties for lateness and absenteeism.

Mr Ashley, who had previously resisted calls to attend the committee, gave a pledge to introduce a number of improvements in working arrangements within the next 90 days. These include moving more of the workforce onto permanent contracts.

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