Parents who disregard game ratings in UK risk being reported to authorities

Allowing a minor to play a game rated 18+ in Cheshire, England (like Grand Theft Auto, Call of Duty and Gears of War)  could lead to the police and children's social care being called.

The Nantwich Education Partners (NEP) in Cheshire have advised parents of students in primary and secondary schools in Cheshire that if their child is found to have access to games rated 18+ there will be repurcussions.

In a letter to parents the NEP cited that the levels of violence and sexual content in games rated 18+ could lead to “early sexualised behaviour” and leave children “vulnerable to grooming for sexual exploitation or extreme violence.” That's not all though, the letter goes on to say:

“If your child is allowed to have inappropriate access to any game, or associated product, that is designated 18+ we are advised to contact the police and children's social care as this is deemed neglectful."

Typically, games rated 18+ cannot be obtained by a minor without the consent of a parent. The NEP is potentially targeting students whose parents gave them consent to play the game — both parent and child will be punished for the purchase of the game.

Perhaps NEP should also go on a witch hunt after parents who buy children mobile devices as they contain access to the Internet, which as we well know, is a portal to anything and everything. Children are one Google search away from being tainted. After that, the NEP should turn its attention towards media that glorifies sex — music, tv (children's tv shows have plenty of innuendos), movies.

Where can the line be drawn?

[Sunday Times via Engadget]