Frustration as PEGI ratings delayed again
UKIE: "Government can't seem to deliver on its side of the bargain" when it comes to child safety
The introduction of PEGI ratings in the UK has been delayed again, meaning that any enforcement of the system is at least 6 months away.
PEGI ratings were part of the Digital Economy Act passed 18 months ago, but according to UK Interactive Entertainment, the passing of a Statutory Instrument needed to bring the Act into force has not been notified to Europe or put before the House of Commons.
"This further delay to PEGI's implementation is extremely frustrating not to mention disappointing," said UKIE chairman Andy Payne.
"We have received repeated assurances from Government that the process is in hand, yet PEGI is still no closer to implementation.
"It is also disappointing that a Government constantly - and quite rightly - pressuring industry to put measures in place to protect children - can't seem to deliver on its side of the bargain.
UKIE claims it has been in contact with the Department of Culture Media and Sport to ensure the Statutory Act is drafted correctly, as well as with the Regulatory Policy Committee - set up by the Government to analyse legislation and ensure it does not become a burden for the industry to adopt.
"The Government has set it stock by making the UK one of the best places in Europe to do business yet despite industry consistently calling on the Government to introduce the necessary measures to reduce the cost of doing business, we have been hit by delay after delay," added Payne.
"It seems that the much talked about red tape has yet again got in the way of creating wealth for UKPLC."