Tax breaks could help stimulate games industry

SNP MSP for Dundee West Joe FitzPatrick has called for a tax break for Computer Games Development as part of a package to boost Dundee industry.

Mr FitzPatrick will lead a debate in the Scottish Parliament this week, ahead of the UK budget in April, calling for VAT to be scrapped on research and development of computer games – as offered in countries such as France and Canada. 

The industry has raised concerns that tax breaks elsewhere could seriously hamper the Scottish based companies who lead the world in computer game development. 

The debate will be accompanied by a Holyrood showcase for Scottish produced games and the research, development and skills training taking place in Dundee.

Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick said;

“Dundee is at the forefront of the computer games industry but we must never be complacent. 

“I want to see research and development in Dundee given the same tax breaks as the competition in France or Canada.  The Chancellor must take action in the upcoming budget.

“In spite of the current economic climate, the games industry is growing but it is not growing as fast as elsewhere.  Without these incentives to invest the industry in the UK is at risk of falling behind. 

“UK firms must pay tax on research and development activities while 20 and 25% tax rebates in France and Canada give their developers a competitive advantage.

“Dundee is facing up to a new economic future following the announcement at NCR.  The computer games industry along with life sciences has the potential to keep our city on the move.

“The Scottish Government has shown its commitment to Dundee with funding for the skillset media academy focussed on games development, rapid action following the announcement at NCR and a £35 million investment in the city’s waterfront.  Now I am asking the UK Government to do the same and introduce the tax breaks for R & D that can preserve Dundee as a world leader in Games development.”