BOLTON South East MP Yasmin Qureshi is 'disappointed' in a campaign by the local UKIP group to boycott the town's new Topshop and Topman stores.

UKIP have suggested that residents stay away from the flagship new retail stores, which opened yesterday in the Market Place Shopping Centre, because they are owned by controversial businessman Sir Phillip Green, who has been criticised for his handling of the collapse of BHS.

Ms Qureshi said: “I am disappointed to see UKIP calling for a boycott of the new stores opening up in Bolton town centre, which are a great boost for the local economy.

“Phillip Green deserves to be punished - I am also particularly keen to see his knighthood removed as part of this - but the employees should not be penalised further.

“UKIP’s boycott shows a disregard for the jobs created for local people and it is reckless to put them at risk with this.

She added: “I am working with my colleagues in Parliament to hold Mr Green to account and the Labour Chair of the Business Committee has also been very strong on this.”