Enron founder Kenneth Lay, who was convicted of helping perpetuate one of the most sprawling business frauds in US history, died yesterday in Aspen, Colorado.

The wife of former Enron chief Ken Lay is opening a second-hand shop selling family furniture and other personal items, it emerged today.

Former Enron chairman Kenneth Lay, who has been summoned to testify before the US Congress tomorrow, will assert his right against self-incrimination and refuse to answer questions, his spokeswoman has said.

Former Enron chairman Kenneth Lay could testify at a US Senate hearing on Tuesday, a week after pulling out of two scheduled appearances when some in Congress suggested he had engaged in criminal activity.