'X-rated' pop videos set to face new TV watershed

Music videos look set to be subjected to tighter regulation under the recommendations of an inquiry into the sexualisation and commercialisation of childhood.

The independent review, commissioned by Prime Minister David Cameron, is expected to demand an age-rating system similar to that for films, which would restrict the times when some videos can be shown.

Its report, to be published on Monday, is also expected to call for it to be made easier for parents to complain about sexualised products - such as clothes - targeted at young children.

And it is expected to call for adverts with sexual imagery to be banned from sites near schools.

Reg Bailey, the chief executive of the Mothers' Union, was asked by Mr Cameron to look into the pressures on children to grow up too quickly.

The inquiry was commissioned in response to the concerns of parents who feel their children are under increasing pressure to become consumers, and that the world is a more sexualised place than when they themselves were growing up.

Its publication follows widespread controversy about the sexual content of videos by pop stars such as Rihanna and Lady Gaga, who have a large following among pre-teens.

Mr Bailey is expected to recommend that the retail, advertising and video industries be given 18 months to clean up their acts voluntarily or face tougher government regulation.