An advert for Grand Theft Auto V (Image: Rockstar Games)

       Rachel Reeves has been accused of putting the UK’s world-leading video games industry at risk with “reckless tax policies”. Gaming has a market value of $184 billion worldwide, more than Hollywood and the music industry combined, and the UK is now the fourth largest video game exporter in the world. Global hits such as Grand Theft Auto were made in the UK while icons such as Lara Croft, star of the Tomb Raider franchise, are British creations.

       But the industry, which contributes ￡6 billion to the UK economy, does not get the recognition it deserves according to the UK Video Games Council, a new industry body set up to lobby government. And Conservatives say it is under threat as a result of decisions made by the Chancellor, including the increase in employer National Insurance contributions that came into effect in April.

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       Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride said: “Britain’s gaming industry is a quiet giant of our economy - bigger than music and film combined, and still growing fast. Across the country, more than 75,000 jobs rely on the sector - from coders and developers to artists, animators and writers. Labour are putting all of that at risk with their reckless tax policies.”

       He made the comments during a visit to the Oxford studios of Rebellion, one of Britain’s most successful independent game developers, where he tested the firm’s products by trying on a virtual reality headset and battling zombies.

       The Shadow Chancellor added: “The UK games industry is hugely export-driven, with exciting opportunities in fast-growing markets like India and South America, but the Chancellor’s mismanagement of the economy has shattered business confidence and that’s harming investment. Rising taxes make it harder for companies to take creative risks, and proposals like a wealth tax will drive entrepreneurs abroad.

       “The UK’s gaming sector is a jewel in our economic crown, and we must protect it.”

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       Rebellion’s recent hits include Zombie Army, designed for virtual reality, and Atomfall, set after a fictional nuclear disaster in Northern England, as well as Judge Dredd vs Judge Death, based on the comic book characters.

       Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride visiting game studio Rebellion (Image: -)

       The firm’s chief executive, Jason Kingsley, is co-chair of the new Video Games Council, set up with the support of Labour digital minister Sir Chris Bryant.

       Mr Kingsley said: “The video game industry plays a significant and ever-growing role in the UK economy, but it does not get the recognition that it deserves given the impact it makes both culturally and economically.”

       He added: “Our creative industries are a true asset and something we should cherish. Therefore, it is imperative that we encourage, promote and protect them as much as possible.”

       A Department of Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson said: "We have committed to investing ￡30 million into the gaming industry, through the Video Games Growth Package, backing the next generation of start-up games studios and developers.”

       “The creative industries, including video games, play an essential role in driving economic growth and spreading opportunity and we will leave no stone unturned to support talented new game developers so that they reach their full potential in creating the next generation of hit games.”

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