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Video games to be given film-style age classifications

27/03/2008

Computer and video games released in the UK are to be given age ratings similar to current film classifications after the government accepted an independent review's recommendations.

The Byron Review, commissioned last year by the prime minister, today said video games should be rated to provide consistent guidance for parents.

At present, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) only provides age ratings if games contain violent or sexual scenes, while publishers in Europe adhere to the entirely-voluntary ratings system of Pegi (Pan-European Game Information).

Dr Tanya Byron, the clinical psychologist and mother-of-two who led today's review, said new technologies such as computer games and the internet had brought "incredible opportunities" to kids.

But she said a generational "digital divide" had left parents lacking confidence and awareness, which in turn made their children vulnerable to risks.

Dr Bryon's recommendations, which have been wholeheartedly accepted by the government, include the creation of a UK Council for Child Internet Safety and industry commitments to codes of practice on user-generated content and social-networking websites such as Facebook and MySpace.

"Risk taking is a developmental imperative of childhood - young people and children will always want to explore boundaries by taking risks, and they will sometimes play this out, at home, in the digital world with many parents unaware of this," she explained.

"In the same way that we teach our children how to manage 'real world' risks, for example crossing roads, in stages and with rules, supervision and monitoring that changes as they learn and develop their independence, we need to engage with children as they develop and explore their online and gaming worlds."

Responding to the review, children's secretary Ed Balls said: "Children and young people often know more about the latest developments in new technology and video games than adults do.

"Dr Byron's recommendations will help parents to recognise risks and judge what is appropriate, such as bringing the 12 plus rating on video games in line with film age classification."

Culture secretary Andy Burnham hailed the "landmark" report.

"There is no question that children can benefit greatly from the digital world, but there are real risks that must be managed," Mr Burnham said.

"We can all - the government, parents and the industry - play a part in reducing that risk and Dr Byron has set out a clear plan of action."

Today's review follows the banning of Manhunt 2 by the BBFC last year when it refused to award a certificate to the game, which it deemed too violent.

The game's producers have since won the right to sell the game in Britain with an 18 plus certificate following a successful high court appeal.