UK Government
UK Government business and news from across the web.
Latest coverage
UK government lands on keeping VPNs alive, shall "continue to review"
The UK government has decided not to limit the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) at this time, following an investigation into social media use among minors. The government cited feedback from families, whistleblowers, and minority groups who highlighted the importance of VPNs for privacy and safety. While no immediate limitations will be imposed, the government stated that it will continue to review the matter and work with companies to ensure young people's safety.
At least one UK government department is reportedly done with X
The UK attorney general, Richard Hermer, has reportedly informed his staff that his office will cease using the social media platform X. This decision follows reports from The Guardian and The Observer.
Ukie hails video games being classed separately from social media as UK government announces ban
The UK government has announced plans to ban social media for under-16s and implement wider online protections, classifying video games separately from social media. Ukie, the UK video games trade body, welcomed this distinction, emphasizing the industry's existing measures like the PEGI age rating system for ensuring child safety online. These new regulations, set to take effect by spring 2027, will include default blocks on communication features for users under 17 on various online services, including 'gaming sites'.
UK looks to ban children from using voice chat in games like Roblox and Fortnite
The UK government is considering a ban on children using voice chat with strangers in games like Fortnite and Roblox as part of new Online Safety Act proposals. Online Safety Minister Kanishka Narayan stated the government is exploring restrictions to reduce contact between minors and unknown adults online, with Children's Commissioner Rachel de Souza highlighting the significant amount of time children spend gaming and using voice features.
Kids might not be able to talk on Fortnite or Roblox anymore, as UK government moves to stop chatting in games
The UK government is considering banning children from using voice chat in online games like Fortnite and Roblox to prevent them from talking to strangers. This potential measure is part of the broader Online Safety Act, aimed at protecting young people online. Online Safety Minister Kanishka Narayan and Children's Commissioner Rachel de Souza have expressed support for such restrictions, citing concerns about children's safety on gaming platforms.
Business and Finance
Newzoo reports that over half of PC gaming revenue is generated by titles outside the top 20 most popular games. Separately, the UK government has initiated the rollout of a £30 million Games Growth Package aimed at fostering the industry.
UK government begins rollout of £30m Games Growth Package
The UK government has launched a £30 million Games Growth Package to support the domestic video game industry. The funding includes £28.5 million for the UK Games Fund, aimed at early-stage developers and studio growth, and £1.5 million for the London Games Festival over three years. The package is divided into tracks for new studios, prototyping, and expansion, with an additional £20 million designated for the Tay Cities region.
UK government commits £28.5 million to supporting local game developers
The UK government has committed £28.5 million to support its domestic video game industry through the UK Games Fund. This funding aims to boost economic growth by providing grants for new companies, game prototyping, and scaling up studios. An additional £1.5 million will support the London Games Festival over three years.
GTA 6 dev Rockstar Games hit with government fine for not paying minimum wage
Rockstar Games has been ordered by the UK government to refund over £1,300 to five employees for failing to pay the National Minimum Wage. The developer was fined as part of a government crackdown on employers who underpay their staff. This news comes as anticipation builds for the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
The UK government backtracks on AI Copyright terms, somewhat saving gaming and other UK creatives – for now
The UK government has backtracked on its proposed copyright terms for Artificial Intelligence, creating ambiguity for the future of AI regulation and its impact on creative industries, including video games. The government's investigation into AI and copyright, which spanned from 2024 to early 2025, explored various options for data mining exceptions and licensing, aiming to balance AI innovation with the protection of creators' rights.
