Scientists call for high heels to be removed from dress codes

Research from Aberdeen University found that the shoes increase the risk of developing musculoskeletal conditions and injury.

However, the UK government rejected calls for a ban earlier this year, prompting the researchers to ask the devolved administrations to legislate against the practice.

Dr Max Barnish, who led the research, said: “From our review it is clear that despite the huge amount of evidence showing heels are bad for individuals’ health, there are complex social and cultural reasons that make high heel wearing attractive.

“We feel the UK government should follow the lead of other authorities who have introduced specific laws to tackle this practice rather than simply relying on existing legislation which has left the situation in this country uncertain and open to misinterpretation.

“Also, this matter has in the UK been so far addressed through UK-wide equality laws. However, there may be scope for the devolved nations of the UK such as Scotland to consider introducing further measures under devolved health legislative powers.”