Uncertainty remains over make-up of Scottish affairs committee

The veteran Labour MP, who originally hails from the Borders, was unopposed for the Westminster committee chairmanship, which will boost his salary by 15,000.

After Labour's success in Scotland in last month's election, taking 41 of 59 seats, the Scottish affairs chairmanship was earmarked for the party. It had long been presumed that Mr Davidson would takeover from former Glasgow Central MP Mohammad Sarwar.

However, it is still uncertain what the make-up of the committee will be.

The Conservatives, who only have one seat north of the Border, are entitled to four seats. But it is understood some would prefer the Liberal Democrats to take four seats instead of one, as they have 11 MPs in Scotland.

Mr Davidson said yesterday that he would not comment on the direction of the committee until the membership of it was determined.

MPs yesterday voted for the chairs of the committees, with most being contested.

It is the first time that a secret ballot has been used for voting for the chairs of committees, in an effort to stop interference from party leaders.

The results are to be announced this morning. One contender is Aberdeen South Labour MP Anne Begg for the work and pensions committee.