Models spy for union to expose catwalk bullying at Fashion Week

Seven top models will act as spies during London Fashion Week to expose any anorexia problems, bullying and forced nudity.

The girls will report to staff from the actors' union Equity who are setting up a "drop-in office" at the extravaganza, which starts today.

The British Fashion Council, which is part-funded by high-street chains, recently concluded in an inquiry that the "vulnerability of the models is startling" - and confirmed that they are at high risk of anorexia and bulimia, setting a dangerous example to teenage girls nationwide.

Concern over eating disorders among models spilled over in 2006 when Brazilian Ana Carolina Reston died as a result of anorexia.

Now nearly 100 models have joined Equity, with complaints including being pressured into nude and semi-nude work.

There are also allegations of orders to lose weight and of allergic reactions to hair dyes and spray paints.

The girls add that they frequently do 10-hour days with, typically, just a 15-minute break.

One 22-year-old model who will act as an Equity "secret agent" said: "There are harassment and health issues. I'm 5ft 11in and size eight but I've been told to slim down.

"There might often not be enough food at a shoot while some photographers will totally ignore a girl's request about how much flesh she wants to show.

"The younger models are more susceptible because they have less experience. The girls from abroad are also vulnerable. They haven't got the avenues where they can seek help."

Organisers of the show, which generates £100million of business for British designers, sparked a fierce row two years ago by refusing to ban super-skinny "size zero" models.

Martin Brown, Equity's head of communications and membership, said: "We have published work on eating disorders because it is something we are familiar with through our representation of actors and dancers, but that is only one issue which needs to be addressed.

"We also want to look at aspects like working hours, the availability and visibility of contracts and open accounting."