Action urged to stop children buying adult video games

Video games should be classified in the same way as films, a government review says.

Classification should be lowered to start at 12+ and symbols would appear on the front of game boxes to restrict children’s access to adult games.

The recommendations are part of the six-month long Byron Review, led by child psychologist Dr Tanya Byron.

It also proposes the creation of a UK Council for Child Internet Safety, to safeguard children’s activity online, and calls for a campaign to educate both parents and children about using the internet without risks.

“The internet and video games are now very much a part of growing up and offer unprecedented opportunities to learn, develop and have fun,” said Dr Byron.

“However, with new opportunities come potential risks. My recommendations will help children and young people make the most of what all digital and interactive technologies can offer, while enabling them and their parents to navigate all these new media waters safely and with the knowledge that more is being done by government and the internet and video game industries to help and support them.”

The government has pledged to act immediately on the recommendations of the report.

Crackdown likely on video games

Violent video games will probably be subject to stricter classifications, making more of them illegal for sale to younger children.

Television psychologist Dr Tanya Byron is currently leading a government investigation into the effects of video games on children.

Parents are also likely to be advised to make sure children only play computer games in the living room, so they can keep an eye on the games' content.

The findings are due to be released next month.