Views Sought On Internet And Video Games

The government has issued a call for views about the risks to children and young people from exposure to potentially harmful or inappropriate material contained in internet and video games.

The call is part of an independent review, which will be conducted by clinical psychologist Dr Tanya Byron on behalf of Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Ed Balls, Children, Schools and Families Secretary and Culture Secretary James Purnell.

The questions, to which anyone with an interest can respond, cover video games and the internet and seek views on the benefits of the new technologies, as well as exploring the potential risks and how children, young people and their parents can be supported to manage them.

Dr Byron said: "Anybody who has children will know that video games and the internet are a part of childhood like never before. This is tremendously positive. New technology is giving kids opportunities to learn, have fun, be creative and communicate in ways that previous generations could only dream of. But many parents still feel ill equipped to help their children navigate this technology safely.

"By issuing my call for evidence today, I want to start a debate about how government, industry and society as a whole can support parents to guide our children into the virtual world, with the same confidence as when we show them how to stay safe in our local community."

Mr Balls said: "I know parents want to have information on how their children can take advantage of the positive benefits of these technologies, whilst being able to protect them against the risks.

"We know for example that 46 per cent of children say they have given out personal information online - but only 5 per cent of parents realise this.

"It is vital that those who are most informed in these areas come forward and engage with Dr Byron to see what more can be done to help families enjoy video games and the internet safely."

Mr Purnell said: "The internet and computer games offer a world of opportunities for children - but at the same time they can present a huge challenge to parents.

"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 Byron review will also undertake more targeted consultations with children, young people, parents and gamers.

Information on the review can be found at: www.dcsf.gov.uk/byronreview

(KMcA)