UK Government should follow Ontario’s lead, says Tiga

In it’s latest lobbying statement to the press, UK games development trade association Tiga has said that the UK government should follow Canadian province Ontario’s lead and back the industry with economic grants – even in the midst of a credit crunch.

Last week the Ontario government unveiled a $1.15bn fund for those creating games development jobs in the region.

Tiga has been loudly lobbying for Government reform, offering economic incentives for UK developers, since the start of the year.

“The credit crunch, turmoil in the financial markets and declining economic activity constrain a government’s fiscal room for manoeuvre; but constraint is not the same as paralysis. Just as the Ontario administration is supporting its games developers in the midst of difficult economic conditions, so the UK government should back its video games industry," Richard Wilson, CEO of Tiga.

“UK video games developers have a skilled workforce; experienced management teams; and an effective approach to outsourcing. UK games businesses offer high quality games, produced on time and at great value. The 14 per cent decline in the value of sterling against the dollar over the last ten months has enhanced the inherent value and competitiveness of UK games developers.

“The UK government can build on these competitive advantages in the Pre-Budget Report by announcing a consultation on the merits of a tax credit for games production and eventual reductions in corporation tax. Consultation on these measures would give a powerful signal of support to the UK games industry. Implementation of these ideas in the March 2009 Budget would provide a potent fillip to the UK games development industry.”