Sheridans supports UK games development: DCMS response to plea for games industry tax credits
On 10th March 2009, in a show of support for the future of the UK gaming industry, Sheridans Solicitors' Entertainment Software team wrote an open letter to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, the Rt. Hon. Andy Burnham MP, calling for tax breaks for games developers ahead of the Budget.
Sheridans is pleased to report that Sion Simon MP, the Minister for the Creative Industries, has responded positively confirming the DCMS' full recognition of the economic and cultural contribution of the UK video games industry and will investigate a culturally based tax credit as a means of supporting the sector.
Rated for "fighting his clients' corners well" (Chambers and Partners), Alex Chapman, Partner and Head of Entertainment Software at Sheridans, commented:
"It is good news and reassuring that the government is looking at a culturally based tax break for games but it is only the start of the hard work. The UK games industry has an opportunity now to convince those in power that it is deserving - which I firmly believe it is."
Copies of the full letter and response are attached. If you would like any further information or quotes/comments on this please contact Sarah McGiven on smcgiven@sheridans.co.uk or by calling 020 7079 0164, or contact Alex Chapman
on achapman@sheridans.co.uk / 020 7079 0100.
