DIGITAL BRITAIN: Election could delay PEGI changes

A source close to the Video Standards Council, the body which will work alongside new games regulator PEGI, has told MCV that there’s not yet a timescale in place to roll-out the changes – and furthermore, there’s concerns that the upcoming general election could delay its implementation.

Not only will a structure have to be put in place for assessment and subsequent ratings, but a new range of categories and warning symbols are also in the works.

Furthermore, retail will be keen to know at what stage the trading of games not marked up with the new ratings will be illegalized, as the possibility of sitting on what will effectively become illegal stock will be a concern.

A general election is certain to take place before the end of June 2010, and with a change in government quite likely according to many, a lengthy rollout could get caught up in the parliamentary turnover.