More netizens rally to give their views in hot debate over 'pseudo-models'

The internet battle over the presence of 'pseudo-models' at the Book Fair has escalated, with the number of people campaigning for and against them growing.

The number of members supporting the Facebook group against the 'pseudo-models' had climbed to more than 51,000 yesterday, while hundreds have joined a rival group on the networking website supporting the 'pseudo-models' over the past week.

The group supporting the models has attracted more than 300 members since its creation last week. Its page says that 'young and healthy' models can handle many jobs and their short height 'truly represents the beauty of Eastern women'. Asked about the controversial sexy poses, the group's creator - who gave his name only as Mr Chan - said: 'Who doesn't want to be an actress in Hollywood? Posing in a sexy way is only a means to their greater career ends.'

Isaac Cheung Chun-hoi, founder of the Public Cultural Events Concern Group, a breakaway from the 'anti-pseudo-models' group, said at least 20 people would hold a protest tomorrow against the Trade Development Council's arrangements. It should have separated those coming to see models from those interested in books, he said.