New York had to be cancelled last week for obvious reasons but Milan and Paris are going ahead and so are we

John Wilson, British Fashion Council

Others pulled out because their fashion teams are stranded in New York, where the autumn round of shows was in full swing at the time of the attacks.

They say it would be impossible to organise the logistical operation to bring models and stylists to the UK from the US in time for the event.

The BFC's chief executive John Wilson said it was the "overwhelming view" of British designers that every attempt should be made to ensure things returned to normal as soon as possible.

Celebrations cancelled

"We are talking about a business situation here," he said.

"New York had to be cancelled last week for obvious reasons but Milan and Paris are going ahead and so are we."

The BFC says 60 designers will still be showing at the event, which is being held at London's Natural History Museum.

However all parties and celebrations associated with London Fashion Week have been cancelled, and BFC will be making a contribution to the US attacks relief fund.