Ex-Dragons' Den star James Caan has criticised will.i.am for allegedly pulling out of helping a youth employment project.

The Sun reports that the businessman had lined up the music star to become an ambassador for a government backed initiative that aims to give unemployed youths low-interest loans.

However, a spokesman for Caan told the newspaper that the singer and musician apparently backed out of the deal after realising that he wouldn't be getting paid. He said:

"Like in The Voice, Will sticks his hand over the button, then changes his mind. First he’s interested, then his management asks if he’s getting any money, then he’s not interested."

An agent for will.i.am meanwhile confirmed that they asked for money for the Voice coach's role - but they insisted the fee would have been given to charity.

Will.i.am meanwhile recently performed at the Capital FM Summertime Ball event, which was held on Sunday (June 9) at London's Wembley Stadium.