Harvey Weinstein is suing his own company to gain access to emails "exonerating" him from sexual assault accusations.

In a lawsuit filed on Thursday, the disgraced film producer claims The Weinstein Company (TWC) is withholding key information that could be used in a future legal action.

"Mr Weinstein believes that his email account - which is the primary, if not only, account he used during the term of his employment by the company - will contain information exonerating him, and therefore the company, from claims that

may be asserted against him or the company," the claim reads.

Image: Dominique Huett is suing TWC claiming the firm knew of Weinstein's alleged behaviour

Weinstein is demanding access to his personal documents, which he says could be used to fight a wrongful termination case or another legal battle with the studio.

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The 65-year-old was sacked by TWC in early October following claims of sexual harassment, assault and rape by dozens of women.

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He later resigned from the company's board, but has denied any accusations made against him.

Weinstein founded TWC with his brother Bob Weinstein, who has spoken of "Harvey's sick and depraved behaviour", adding he thinks his brother has "no remorse whatsoever".

The claim filed on Thursday says "similar improper conduct" has been levelled against Bob, who has also denied sexually harassing a female producer.

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Of the now nearly 70 women who have made allegations against Weinstein, the claim specifies the case of actress Dominique Huett, who is suing TWC for $5m (£3.8m), claiming the firm knew of Weinstein's alleged behaviour.

"Mr Weinstein seeks no more than to be able to have access to the same information as his brother does to prevent further harm to the company," it adds.

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The film mogul also believes access to his personal file will allow him to investigate whether any information was leaked to the press.

If found to be true, Weinstein plans to pursue a claim against TWC and its representatives.