Harmful Content on the Internet and in Video Games

HC 353-I, Tenth Report of Session 2007-08 - Volume I: Report, Together with Formal Minutes, Oral and Written Evidence

Author:: House of Commons - Culture, Media and Sport Committee
Publisher:: TSO (The Stationery Office)

Harmful Content on the Internet and in Video Games (HC 353-I)

The Internet has become an indispensable tool for communications, research and commerce. However, this report addresses the growing public concern at the Internet's dark side. Of particular concern are: the easy availability of hardcore pornography, which people may find offensive; the uploading by ordinary people of film of real fights, bullying, or alleged rape; and the setting up of websites encouraging others to follow extreme diets, or self-harm, or even to commit suicide.

There is also increasing anxiety among parents about the use of social networking sites and chatrooms for grooming and sexual predation. The Committee welcomes the Government-commissioned report by Dr Tanya Byron on the risks posed by the Internet to children (Download here: 'Safer Children in a Digital World') and agrees that a UK Council for Child Internet Safety should be established.

Sites that host user-generated content - typically photos and videos uploaded by members of the public - have taken some steps to set minimum standards for that content. The Committee recommends that proactive review of content should be standard practice for such sites and calls for provision of high profile facilities for reporting abuse or unwelcome behaviour directly to law enforcement and support organisations.

There is a distinct issue about labelling of video games to indicate the nature of their content. Two systems currently exist side-by-side: the industry awards its own ratings; and the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) awards classifications to a small number of games which feature content unsuitable for children. This dual system is confusing and the Committee recommends that the BBFC should have responsibility for rating games with content appropriate for adults or teenagers.

The accompanying 'Harmful Content on the Internet and in Video Games - Volume II: Oral and Written Evidence (HC 353-II)' (ISBN 9780215523372) is available to buy separately, please see below.

Extent	76 pages	ISBN	9780215523389
Size	A4	Price	£14.50
Binding	Paperback	Published	31 Jul 2008
Availability	Colour copy: 3 - 5 days	Delivery	Delivery options and charges