Mike Rawlinson, the director general of games industry body ELSPA, has welcomed the government’s decision to back PEGI as the sole age ratings system for video games sold in the UK.

“The Government has made absolutely the right decision for child safety,” Rawlinson said in a statement. “By choosing PEGI as the single classification system in the UK, British children will now get the best possible protection when playing videogames either on a console or on the internet.

“Parents can be assured that they will have access to clear, uniform ratings on games and an accurate understanding of game content.

“Today’s decision will ensure that games ratings stay relevant and adapt to the changing nature of videogames for many years to come. Retailers will now have clear, legal backing to help them prevent access to unsuitable content by children.

“We will work closely with the Government, the Video Standards Council and the BBFC to ensure a smooth and rapid transition to this new ratings system.”