Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Digitally Altered Body Images

15 September 2020 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Luke Evans Con Hinckley and Bosworth

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Luke Evans raised concerns about digitally altered body images in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The Bill aims to address the issue of digitally altered body images in media.
  • It proposes requiring a logo to be displayed when body proportions in images have been fundamentally changed.
  • Mr Evans cites examples from Israel and France where similar laws are in place.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Luke Evans Con Hinckley and Bosworth

The Bill aims to address the issue of digitally warped reality created by media, striving for bodies that can never be achieved. It proposes requiring advertisers, broadcasters and publishers to display a logo when body proportions have been fundamentally changed in images. The goal is to empower individuals with honest advertising, similar to current practices like 'P' for product placement. Mr Evans cites examples from Israel and France where such laws are already in place. He also mentions the support of charities and committees.

Other contributors (1)
  • Luke Evans Con Hinckley and Bosworth

    Mr Evans explains that he wants to address body image issues caused by digitally altered images, citing his experience as a GP where he saw many patients suffering from low self-esteem, anorexia, bulimia or steroid abuse. He mentions the Health Foundation survey and celebrities like Lauren Goodger and Spencer Matthews who have spoken about their concerns regarding body image. The Bill is a small step towards addressing unrealistic aspirations in society.

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