An Aberdeenshire MP has defended his financial interests in the oil industry after he became chair of a powerful Commons committee on climate change.

The register of MPs interests show that Sir Robert Smith has shareholdiings in the oil giant Shell.

The Lib Dem MP has also accepted hospitality worth £750 from the energy company BP, including a ticket to the men's gymnastics at last year's Olympics.

Sir Robert takes over as chair of the Commons Energy and Climate Change Select Committee today.

The move came after his predecessor temporarily stepped aside amid allegations he had "coached" a witness ahead of an appearance before the committee.

Former minister Tim Yeo insists he has done nothing wrong but has withdrawn while he awaits the outcome of an inquiry by a parliamentary watchdog.

However, the allegations have raised questions about whether MPs should be allowed to become committee chairs in an area in which they have financial interests.

Sir Robert, the MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, said: "My financial interests are entered in the register and are open to public inspection.

"During any inquiry or evidence session that the Select Committee holds I regularly remind the committee of my relevant interests."

In a statement, the committee said of Mr Yeo: "The committee has unanimously accepted the chair's recommendation that he absent himself from committee business for the duration of the investigation."