Alan Sugar vows to stay at BBC for new series of The Apprentice

Jun 15 2008

APPRENTICE boss Sir Alan Sugar yesterday denied suggestions he has demanded more cash for his starring role in the reality TV show.

A record audience tuned in to watch Wednesday night's final on BBC1 when milkman's son Lee McQueen was crowned the winner.

It was reported that although a fifth series has been commissioned, Sir Alan said he has not decided what to do after that and has been approached by other broadcasters.

He said: "I am a loyal fellow but the BBC should be able to pay the market price. That said, I will do my utmost to stick with the BBC...unless, of course, they fire me."

Sir Alan's comments sparked rumours he was on the lookout for a better deal. But a spokesman for the Amstrad entrepreneur said "Sir Alan would like to make it clear terms for a fifth series of The Apprentice have already been agreed between himself and the BBC and he is not seeking to renegotiate these."

He added Sir Alan has always donated his fee to good causes, including Cancer Research UK.