Thin model row 'an overreaction'

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The media outrage over stick-thin models is an overreaction, the Observer magazine's fashion editor has said.

Speaking on the first day of London Fashion Week, Sasha Wilkins told BBC Radio Five Live: "I think it's all a bit of a storm in a media teacup."

"I'd like to hear a bit more of a debate about the problems of obesity in this country", she said.

On Saturday Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell said models should undergo a medical before taking to the catwalk.

She said that ultimately it was the industry's decision, but she felt doctors should be on hand during the London event.

Unhealthy images

But Ms Wilkins maintained the focus should be on the issue of obesity "as that seems to affect so many more people than being excessively skinny".

She also said that there was no such thing as a standard clothes size.

"Size zero doesn't really actually exist because there's no actual definition of what a size zero is," she said.

Speaking out about the use of very thin models during London Fashion week Ms Jowell said the industry should take action to avoid promoting unhealthy body images.

But she warned against penalising girls who were "fortunate enough to stay skinny while eating normally".