Gaming industry investment to boost Scottish economy

Date: 25th February 2010

Scotland economy will be boosted by its activity in the video gaming industry.

This is the view of Stephen Timms, UK minister for digital Britain, who said a recent government investment would help to create jobs in the sector.

It follows a recent announcement from the government that it is to invest £2.5 million into the centre of excellence at Abertay University in Dundee.

In a speech at the university, Mr Timms said: "Scotland has rich heritage when it comes to computer games. Some of the world's most iconic games - like Grand Theft Auto and Lemmings - have been developed around Dundee.

"This new investment will strengthen Abertay University as a centre of excellence for the games industry. Investing now means that firms can start to build and grow for the future."

Mr Timms said that the government's investment would help to create up to 30 new companies in the industry and support 80 others.

The funding will "stimulate 400 jobs nationwide", he added.