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Call for 'Adult Only' games rating

Video games that depict explicit content such as torture and murder should have an "adult only" rating certificate in order to protect children, according to a report from Northamptonshire's police and crime commissioner.

Adam Simmonds, wants the video games industry to give more to parents in order to protect children from exposure to potentially damaging content.

According to the research, one in four primary school age children have seen something online that upsets them, with the most common cause being in a video game.

Mr Simmonds has suggested a new rating - AO or adult only - should be introduced on certain games in order to help parents identify which content is suitable for children.

The Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system is already in place in the games industry, with ratings and reasons for that rating displayed on packaging. But Mr Simmonds has suggested that titles that ask players to participate in extreme acts of violence, such as massacring civilians, should be given an 'AO' rating.

Speaking ahead of a conference in Northampton today he said:

The Conference on Video Gaming taking place in Northampton today Credit: ITV News Anglia

Controversy creates cash. However, today's report shows that children as young as five are being subject to graphic scenes while playing video games that have left them feeling extremely upset. "Many parents might not be fully aware that these games contain such disturbing scenes. "It is time for the industry to play a more proactive role in protecting young minds."

– Adam Simmonds Police and Crime Commissioner, Northants

Click below to watch Olivia Paterson's report