HSBC has reportedly suspended a senior executive who accused central bankers and other officials of exaggerating the financial risks of climate change.

Last week, Stuart Kirk, a leader in the bank’s responsible investing team, said: “There’s always some nut job telling me about the end of the world.”

At the weekend, HSBC’s boss Noel Quinn posted on social media that he did not agree “at all” with the comments.

The firm declined to comment on reports that Mr Kirk has been suspended.

Mr Kirk, who is global head of responsible investing at the bank’s asset management division, was suspended pending an investigation into a speech he made at an event last week, according to the Financial Times, which first reported the story.

His role, which is based in London, involves considering the impact of investments on environmental, social and governance issues. – bbc.com