A search has been launched for the next top model - by the prestigious debating society the Oxford Union.

The union, in Frewin Court, Oxford, is to host an event scouting for talent in terms of looks rather than brains.

It has joined forces with Take 2 Model Management in a bid to find the best student modelling talent in Oxford.

Union spokesman Ben Glazer said the event was "a little bit of fun", but also a serious competition with a serious prize to be won.

He said: "One of our members suggested it and we decided it was a good idea."

Mr Glazer dismissed the suggestion that having a modelling contest was dumbing down. He said: "It is just catering for a wider audience.

"We have a huge number of people who are members, some are more interested in debates, some are interested in other elements of the union.

"We don't just want to have intense debates and, if the outcome is a sexier, more fun union, then that is fine."

The Oxford Union has been home to the cream of British and international politics, with Tony Benn, David Cameron and Benazir Bhutto among its members.

But union member and co-chairman of the Women's Campaign at the university Kate Halls, 20, said the event was "worrying".

She said: "The situation of women in Oxford is far from equal, so the fact that all the events they (the union) seem to be running are things like porn stars, singers, modelling and competitions, is quite insulting."

She added: "With as many as a third of all female students reporting having an eating disorder at some point, it is really worrying from a welfare point of view."

Three successful girls will win a photoshoot, with the chance of a further shoot in London and a modelling contract.

Entrants have to be members of the union, under 21 and over 5ft 8in tall.