Allowing size zero models is 'both irresponsible and wrong' - Dee Doocey AM

5.38.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 13th Aug 2008

Commenting on the decision to allow size zero models at next month's London Fashion Week Dee Doocey AM, Liberal Democrat culture spokesperson, said: "To allow these ultra-thin models on to London's catwalks, when they are idolised and imitated by so many impressionable young girls, is both irresponsible and wrong.

"I find it quite extraordinary the British Fashion Council is saying this idea is unworkable. The British Fashion Council should lead the way and set an example rather than wait for agreement from other countries."

The proposed ban had come out of the Model Health Inquiry set up last year amid the widespread concern over the increasing use of "heroin chic" models in high-profile modelling assignments and campaigns.

The British Fashion Council had described the idea as "eminently sensible" and gave the impression they were keen to see it introduced.

But now the plan to banish size zero models from London's catwalks has been abandoned after other fashion capitals refused to follow London's lead. The proposal that all models would have to obtain a doctor's certificate proving they were in good health also raised fears models would boycott London Fashion Week.

Dee says: "There are serious health issues at stake. One in 40 women currently either has bulimia or anorexia. The numbers are increasing each year and sufferers are getting younger.

"Yet the British Fashion Council seems oblivious to the fact that there are huge numbers of impressionable young girls who are highly influenced by these unhealthy images on the catwalk.

"However, it's now clear that they've only paid lip-service to the recommendations. Once again they've shown they put profit for the industry ahead of the wellbeing of models.

"I will be pushing very hard for the LDA to withhold the funding and I'll be raising this as a matter of urgency with the both the LDA and the Mayor."