Gary Lineker, David Beckham and other sports celebrities who promote soft drinks or fattening snacks have been criticised by MPs for encouraging obesity.

David Hinchliffe, the chairman of the health select committee, said Beckham, the England football captain, must take responsibility for any damage done by endorsing Pepsi.

Lineker, the television presenter and former England football captain, was accused of harming youngsters' health with advertisements for Walkers crisps.

The health committee was taking evidence as part of an investigation into Britain's obesity problem.

The National Consumer Council yesterday called on ministers to tax unhealthy food in a bid to address obesity.