Opinion: Vox pop - Should violent video games face tougherrestrictions?

In it was a proposal to introduce stronger restrictions on the promotion and sale of violent video games in an attempt to stop children playing them.

YES - Chris Muwanguzi, deputy programme manager, boys2MEN

Video games create a world in which young people can express themselves in ways that they are not able to in the real world. They may be more willing to be aggressive and fight when using games. Games where the character gains points by being destructive may be more likely to make young people think either that violence is okay or support a culture persuading young people to join in violent crime. Promotion of any game that features gangs, guns and knives and which can be accessed by young people should be considered carefully because of the impact it may have on the most vulnerable.

NO - Mike Rawlinson, managing director, the Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association

The games industry has a stringent code of conduct in place to restrict the promotion of 18-rated games in environments aimed at minors. The small number of games that are rated with an 18 certificate are promoted to an adult audience. The industry takes this code of conduct very seriously. There is also a system to prevent minors purchasing adult rated games and child locks are available on all games consoles. Our association also has measures in place to educate people about game content and the age ratings system. Further information can be found at www.askaboutgames.co.uk.

YES - Uanu Seshmi, director, From Boyhood to Manhood Foundation

A lot of young people have been influenced by video games. When you have knife and gun violence in a game it does help to teach young people about how to be violent. A certain type of mentality has been imported into this country and it is one where carrying a weapon is deemed acceptable. Violent games and music are partially responsible. Young people are learning to solve conflict through violence. There should be restrictions on how young people are exposed to this gratuitous violence. I don't understand the need for young people to play these games. I think there is a case for banning them.

NO - James Binns, publishing director, Future

The current regulations are enough and besides promoting violent video games to young people is crackers because they can't buy them. A lot of marketing reaches inappropriate audiences: gambling advertising is making its way onto TV and billboards promote horror movies. Retailers who sell an 18-plus product to a younger gamer are breaking the law, so games industry marketers have no interest promoting to young people. Nobody needs macho "tough" restrictions. What the games business needs are marketing plans from media owners that engage with relevant audiences.