Censorship confuses consumers

10 November 2005

Censorship confuses consumers

Video game labelling should be simplified so consumers know what they are buying, the Consumers’ Institute says.

“The range of different labels, from New Zealand, Australia and from other countries, confuses buyers. We welcome the changes proposed by chief censor Bill Hastings,” says Consumer investigative writer Martin Craig.

“New Zealanders are already familiar with the labelling system used for videos and DVDs, and the proposed changes will bring video games into line.”

The latest issue of Consumer magazine examines video game ratings and labels. Consumer says a recent report showed under age buyers have few problems getting R18 video games.

“Retailers have a responsibility to ensure they are not selling restricted games to under-age customers. While ID is usually required to buy alcohol, the report strongly suggests that game retailers have a casual attitude to meeting their legal responsibilities,” said Mr Craig.

A full copy of the article is available from: www.consumer.org.nz

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