Statements relating to today's meeting between UK Government and video games industry

Friday 10 December 2004/... A meeting was held today between UK Government, ELSPA, TIGA, BARD, VSC and BBFC to discuss age ratings on video games.

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell said: "This was a very positive meeting. Industry agreed with Government that we needed to make sure that the 18 classification system is understood and enforced. Adults can make informed choices about what games to play. Children can't and they deserve to be protected.

"Industry will consider how to make sure parents know what games their children should and shouldn't play. Their responsible attitude is very welcome."

Roger Bennett, director general, ELSPA (Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association) said: "We are delighted with the very positive discussions held with Government and are pleased to embrace a collective approach to this issue. We all realise that it is important that we work together to look at ways in which the industry can do more to help parents make informed decisions.

"A number of initiatives were discussed at the meeting and they will be formulated to create specific proposals to promote greater understanding, recognition and awareness of the games rating system, ensuring that young people are not exposed to inappropriate content.

"Our goal is and has always been co-operation, action and results."

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Editors' Notes:

Weekend contacts:

Simon Harvey +44 (0)7860 401882

Deborah Coster +44 (0)7956 588198