William Shawcross confirmed last week that he would be leading the probe into the hiring of Richard Sharp following reports the chairman had helped Boris Johnson secure a loan.

But just seven days later, Mr Shawcross has written to the chair of the digital, culture, media and sport committee, saying he will be handing the case over to an "independent person".

Labour's shadow culture secretary Lucy Powell - who called for the investigation - hit out at the timing of Mr Shawcross' decision, tweeting: "It's taken him a week to realise a conflict of interest, sharing these cosy relationships.

"The truth must come out about this appointment."