New measures will not soften the loss of a tax break, says games expert

Date: 16th July 2010

The UK's gaming industry should receive the same tax benefits as the film sector.

That is according to Phil Elliott, managing editor of GamesIndustry.biz, following the launch of government support measures for game developers.

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills yesterday (July 15th) announced details of a £2 million fund created to help small firms in the industry create game prototypes.

However, Mr Elliott said the fund will not soften the blow the industry felt when the new government axed a tax break proposed by the previous administration.

"It's difficult to see this as any kind of softener to the loss of any overall tax break," he commented.

"There is some genuine disquiet in the industry over what's being seen as double standards, as the minister is happy to argue the case for keeping the same tax benefits for the film industry. Most would argue that both creative industries should receive aid, or neither."

Posted by Jacob Williams