Games trade association backs UK Brexit strategy

Tiga welcomes parts of white paper amid concerns over attracting talent

The trade association representing the UK games industry has called on the EU to take the UK’s Brexit white paper seriously but has concerns about the sector attracting top tech talent.

Dr Richard Wilson, the chief executive of Tiga, highlighted a number of positive elements for the games industry in the UK’s latest blueprint for leaving the EU.

The document seeks to ensure the free flow of data to support business activity and security collaboration, enable UK and EU citizens to travel to each other’s countries, develop a system for mutual recognition or professional qualifications and commit to a common rulebook on state aid.

Mr Wilson said: “The video games industry welcomes the continued protection of personal data under GDPR, the mutual recognition of qualifications and maintaining close links to cultural programmes like Creative Europe.

“Measures and programmes like these can make it easier for businesses to do businesses.”

Mr Wilson called on more detail to be provided on future migration to ensure games firms are able to recruit skilled workers.

“We do want to see more details on the future migration regime,” he added.

“Video games companies depend on the ability to recruit highly skilled workers wherever they are from.

“To compete globally we need easy access to the best and brightest talent. 15% of the UK’s games industry workforce comes from Europe.

“We also would like to see a greater flexibility on state aid rules, so the government can act quickly and decisively to support sectors of the economy with real growth potential, particularly in the digital, creative and high technology sectors.

“This could enable the UK Government to enhance measures like video games tax relief quickly and effectively in the future.”

While acknowledging the white paper was a starting point for more detailed negotiations with the EU, Mr Wilson added: “We hope the EU takes this opening offer seriously.”

Earlier this week Tiga called on the UK Government to create a fund to help small developers improve their access to finance.

Tiga chief executive Dr Richard Wilson.