Victoria Beckham ‘snubs’ thin model inquiry

Beckham among fashion leaders who reportedly ignored Parliamentary invitation

VICTORIA Beckham has reportedly IGNORED an invitation from a Parliamentary inquiry to discuss the use of underage and dangerously thin models.

Caroline Nokes MP, the head of the all-party Parliamentary group on body image, called upon leading figures in the fashion industry to give evidence — but says Beckham and top model agencies snubbed them.

Catwalk models are getting skinnier Getty

Nokes said: “I have written to a number of model agencies including Wilhelmina, Models 1 and Storm and also to Victoria Beckham, whose show at New York fashion week drew such attention to this already concerning problem.

“Sadly, I have received no response from any of them . . . and I think this is a real shame. Having been given the opportunity to take part I very much hope those who have declined to take part will not criticise its conclusions.”

A worryingly thin Cheryl Fernandez-Versini PA

The inquiry is considering whether the use of very thin models and girls as young as 13 on the catwalk and in fashion magazines is encouraging eating disorders among schoolgirls.

Nokes has warned that a voluntary code of conduct to stop girls feelings pressured to slim to impossible proportions is being ignored and that new laws might be needed.

It comes as an investigation revealed that every model on the Abercrombie & Fitch website has a waist-to-height ratio of less 0.4, which is considered by nutritionists to be the minimum safe level.

It is feared that young girls may copy ultra-thin models ABACA

The high-street store has subsequently been accused of “indifference”, while its rivals Topshop and Oasis were found to be using size “triple zero” mannequins with incredibly thin legs and waists, prompting the risks of using unhealthy models to come to the fore.

Former Spice Girl Beckham’s spokeswoman said she was not aware of the invitation, adding that she was currently on holiday.