Sex imagery probe to be extended

The publishers of Playboy magazine have been singled out for criticism

MSPs are to extend their investigation into claims of the use of sexual imagery in goods aimed at children.

Holyrood's Equal Opportunities Committee has expressed serious concern about inappropriate merchandise being targeted at youngsters.

Adult publisher Playboy, which puts its logo on products such as pencil cases, was one company to be singled out.

MSPs are considering several options, including commissioning external research.

The move is expected after the committee last year heard anecdotal claims about the availability of items, such as provocative children's T-shirt logos and high-heel slip-on shoes for babies.

Several retailers have so far refused to give evidence to the committee on the issue, while Playboy has firmly rejected accusations that such merchandise was knowingly aimed at children.

MSPs are considering a number of ways to further investigate the concerns.

They also include taking evidence from young people and parents - and may agree to a private meeting with retailers and industry representatives if they remained reluctant to appear before the committee.

The Scottish Retail Consortium, which rejected an invite to appear before MSPs, said the issue was aimed more at the manufacturing and advertising sectors.