Martin has “strenuously” denied paying for a sex worker using funds from WPP, the company he founded and developed into the world’s largest advertising group.
The remarks follow a report in the Wall Street Journal on Saturday, which claimed one of the matters the investigation into Sorrell had examined was whether he had used company money for a sex worker. The findings of the investigation have never been made public.
The comments come eight weeks after the tycoon resigned as chief executive of the company, a departure that was announced before the conclusion of an investigation into alleged personal misconduct made against Sorrell.
Sorrell’s spokesman said on Sunday: “Sir Martin signed a non-disclosure agreement when he stepped down which precludes him from discussing any of the circumstances surrounding his departure. He has rigidly adhered to this obligation and will continue to do so.
“As regards the allegations which have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Sir Martin strenuously denies them. He will be making no further comment at this time.
A spokesman for WPP said: “WPP has been advised that it cannot disclose details of the allegations against Sir Martin Sorrell because it is prohibited by data protection law from giving such details. Sir Martin chose to resign at the conclusion of the investigation by independent legal counsel.”
The latest development in the saga emerged as the advertising group is set to host its annual general meeting this week. The company is braced for a tough reception from shareholders, who are agitated about executive pay and how the board planned for the departure of the 73-year-old Sorrell, as well as the detail surrounding his exit.
For more read the full of article at The Guardian
