Rees-Mogg speaks out against use of "grid girls"

Outspoken Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg has signalled support for Formula One bosses banning "grid girls" because he believes women should be treated with respect.

The right-wing MP, tipped by some as a future leader of the Conservative Party, said he was glad such things were "fading out".

He said: "I believe in a free society where people should be free to do what they want. But, as you know, I'm quite old fashioned and I believe in treating ladies with respect.

"And I don't think grid girls is treating ladies with respect.

"In fact, I think it is viewing them, it is objectifying them, and, frankly, I have never felt comfortable with it.

"Perhaps I'm just an old prude, a bit of a stuffed shirt. I am quite happy that these things are fading out."

Speaking at a university question and answer event, the MP added: "I don't think they add to society. But, I don't want to enforce my will in this area on other people.

"I think it is for society to decide. For the grid girls to decide. For Formula One to decide. I don't think it is a matter for legislation."

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has defended the use of grid girls after current bosses decided to end their use at races.

The sport's American owners Liberty Media declared that the practice of employing grid girls was "at odds with modern day societal norms" and scrapped their use with immediate effect.

The move follows a similar decision made by the Professional Darts Corporation last month.