Games violence under review

The Government has called for an independent study into the effects video games and the internet has on children.

The Byron review is led by TV clinical psychologist Dr Tanya Byron and has been commissioned by Prime Minister Gordon Brow, Ed Balls, Secretary of State for the Department for Children, Schools and Families, and James Purnell, secretary for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

It will look at whether new controls are needed for violent, sexual and other inappropriate images in video games, including those that are shared, downloaded and viewed on the internet, by asking members of the public to put across their views and advice on whether they think present controls are sufficient.

the review will also look how exposure to potentially harmful images may affect children's behaviour, before recommending "further action or improvements " needed in regulation and education, including advertising. As well as advising parents on they can help manage this medium and keep their children safe.

Balls said the subject of video games and the internet had been raised "time and time" again by parents. As a result he encouraged “everyone with an interest in this important debate to have their say.”

Purnell agreed: “It’s essential that, as well as parents and children, the industry and the regulators engage with this review so we can deal with inappropriate content and maximise the huge advantages the internet brings."

The report will be out in March 2008. Members of the public can put forward their advice and views on this topic up until 30 November by visiting the DCSF website.