Carole White co-founder of Premier Model Management agency told The Independent that magazines have ‘gone into reverse’and that editors think that only white faces sell at news-stands.

White started her company in 1982, at a time when Naomi Campbell and Pat Cleveland regularly featured on the cover of magazines.

She said: ‘Whenever I ask the question, it’s always about sales and the idea that blue eyes and blonde hair sells. I’m not sure I believe that. If fashion editors were a bit braver and tried out black, Asian and Chinese models, our eyes would be easier on that look. They don’t give the opportunities to these girls. Given that there are so many variations of skin, particularly in London, it’s a backward step being taken if no one is brave enough to give ethnic girls a chance.”