MP accuses X Factor of discrimination

A LABOUR MP has accused the ITV talent show The X Factor of discrimination against trade union members.

John McDonnell said "camera-friendly" female violinists were hired for shows on the condition they were not members of the Musicians' Union.

The MP condemned the move in a Commons motion, saying: "A successful show like The X Factor should be setting a good example and paying its musicians a decent wage."

Show staff allegedly sent an e-mail to music colleges earlier this month asking for a number of "camera-friendly, confident female violinists" to perform live.

Mr McDonnell's motion said that "this not only discriminates against trade union members, it also discriminates on the grounds of sex".