MPs have invited Sports Direct founder Mike Ashley to give evidence to the joint-parliamentary inquiry into the collapse of BHS.

However the controversial entrepreneur will avoid another appearance in front of MPs as he will give evidence in writing, rather than going to Parliament.

Earlier this week, Ashley told MPs he “100%” had wanted to buy the department store chain. The admission came as part of a separate inquiry into working conditions at Sports Direct.

During the BHS inquiry this week, former owner Dominic Chappell claimed to MPs that Sir Philip Green had blocked a rescue deal by Ashley.

Chappell said: “Philip went absolutely crazy, screaming and shouting down the phone that he didn’t want to get involved with Mike Ashley”.

However, Green, who will gives evidence next Wednesday, reportedly said he was “unaware of any bid interest by Mike Ashley”.

Other who have been invited to give evidence now include:

  • Paul Sutton - an early bidder for BHS before Dominic Chappell emerged
  • Richard Caring - who had a stake in BHS, and is now a restaurants and clubs owner
  • Mike Sherwood - vice chairman of Goldman Sachs Europe
  • Brett Palos - Sir Philip Green’s stepson, a property developer who bought a BHS store last year

The sessions are due to take place on June 28 and 29.

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