Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage has continued her support for a major Parliamentary inquiry into body image.
The investigation, launched by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Body Image in November 2011, heard today from leading representatives from the diet and cosmetic surgery industries. The Hampshire MP, as a founding member of the APPG, was on hand to hear the evidence from organisations such as Weight Watchers and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
Speaking after the event, Caroline said:
"There is an urgent need for this inquiry at a time when body image anxiety is fuelling low self-esteem, depression and eating disorders among young people and adults. I commend the huge progress we've made already with the investigation and welcome the contribution of the diet and cosmetic surgery industries today. It's high time that they stood up and recognised the harm that can be caused by the unrealistic diets and images that the irresponsible elements of their industries propagate".
The inquiry, which is set to incorporate 12 evidence sessions in total, will continue to hear from a range of sources including the fashion industry, academics, the media and youth organisations. The concluding report will set out the causes and consequences of body image anxiety, and the potential solutions. Caroline added:
"I'm committed to supporting this inquiry in its entirety to ensure that we genuinely tackle the root causes of body anxiety, and work towards a society that promotes, rather than undermines, positive body image."