The Model Health Inquiry, which was set up by the British Fashion Council (BFC) to deal with health issues amongst the fashion models, issued 14 recommendations aimed at promoting better health within the industry. Among those suggestions, the Inquiry also emphasized banning models under the age of 16.
"The BFC recognizes the extent to which the health of models who appear on the catwalks of fashion shows around the world has become an emotive issue. The independent Inquiry panel has the range of skills appropriate to determining the facts in this debate and what action, if any, should be taken by the British fashion community," the BFC said in a statement.
Hilary Riva, chief executive of the BFC, which organizes the London Fashion Week, said modeling agencies in the U.K. have to take quick steps to educate models about the changes. "Some of these [recommendations] have already been adopted and others will take time, and further funding, to develop. We look forward to building upon the work completed to date to bring about further positive change," Riva said.
The report comes after an investigation that found models are at a high risk of eating disorders. The chairman of the Model Health Inquiry, Baroness Kingsmill further told BBC, "However, there is a deep lack of knowledge about eating disorders in the fashion industry and a widespread desire amongst many of its constituents to radically improve the current situation by banning the under 16s, introducing health certification and ensuring professional standards of education and research."
The Model Health Inquiry did not recommend taking any measures for size zero models. The Inquiry also suggested spreading knowledge amongst models, parents and modeling agencies through the use of a website and hotline.
