"FASHION INDUSTRY MUST IMPLEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS OF MODEL HEALTH INQUIRY" - DOOCEY

4.02.08pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 14th Sep 2007

Commenting on the publication of the Model Health Inquiry, Liberal Democrat Culture Spokesperson on the London Assembly, Dee Doocey, said:

"I broadly welcome the findings of the Model Health Inquiry. I am disappointed that the report did not go all the way and recommend a BMI ban but health certificates are a significant first step in tackling seriously underweight models.

'The health certificates must be renewed every year and the initial testing should happen over more than one consultation to ensure that models cannot beat the system.

'However, this report will not be worth the paper it's written on unless its recommendations are rigorously enforced by the fashion industry.

'I shall be keeping a close eye on how the model agencies and fashion industry respond to this report. If they do not implement its recommendations, the Mayor should have no other choice but to direct the London Development Agency to withdraw its funding from London Fashion Week".

ENDS