The computer, which was sold on eBay for £77, contained sensitive information on several million bank customers. The information is said to have included account details and in some cases customers’ signatures, mobile phone numbers and mothers’ maiden names.

Lining up the support of CEOs and their small-business brethren offers both candidates a chance to bolster their economic credentials while sending voters the message that they’re ready to be the nation’s chief executive. The courtship goes both ways. For executives, a smooth working relationship with the White House is essential.

The listing - entitled “Empty condom packet & a photo of The Tart’s knickers”, also comes with a detailed account of how the woman discovered her husband’s infidelity. The leading bid for the items is currently at $27,600 with three days to go.

David Piper, who describes himself as Lord of the Manor of Warleigh, has included a nine-bedroom house in Plymouth, south-western England, a modern art collection and two Bentley cars in the price.

Hundreds of eBay users around the country who bought exercise equipment, pocket bikes, quad bikes, electric guitars, furniture and other household items from EBS International before it went bust now have little chance of receiving their items or obtaining a refund from the seller.