Industry lacks social responsibility, says Home Secretary

Jack Straw, the UK's Leader of the House of Commons, has said that he does not see games developers and publishers taking responsibility for the content they produce.

The comments came during questions in Parliament and were prompted by outspoken games critic and Labour MP Keith Vaz.

Vaz raised the issue of Manhunt 2 being banned by the BBFC this week, as well as the withdrawal of PC title Law and Order: Double or Nothing, which contained an image of murdered toddler James Bulger.

"There is a clear need for better regulation of the videogames industry," said Vaz, reports GamePolitics.com

"Will the Leader of the House please tell us when he expects a statement to be made... or when we may have a debate on the social responsibilities of those who make a huge amount of money out of these videogames?" asked Vaz.

Straw said the BBFC fell under his responsibility when he was previously Home Secretary, and is now the responsibility of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. He confirmed that violence in games is a subject that is likely to be further examined by the UK Government.

"We do not see sufficient social responsibility and understanding by the creators and purveyors of such games," commented Straw.

"I will of course ensure that the Minister is made fully aware of my right honourable Friend's concerns," he added, referring to Minister Shaun Woodward of the DCMS.