UK Games Industry Reacts to Brexit

The United Kingdom has voted to leave the European Union.

The Brexit referendum closed with 52 percent of the votes in favour of ending membership in the EU and 48 percent in favour of remaining part of it. Following the announcement of the results, the pound fell to its lowest level against the dollar since 1985 and shares on the FTSE 100 Index also dropped by eight percent.

The UK video game industry has responded to the Brexit outcome, with trade body UKIE saying the decision has resulted in some uncertainty for the industry. However, it has provided assurances it will work to ensure the UK "is the best place in the world to make and sell games."

"Although this decision and the political uncertainty it brings will have an impact on our businesses it is important to remember that we are already a globally successful sector and a leading exporter in digital economy," said UKIE chief executive Jo Twist.

Prior to the Brexit vote UKIE's members, which includes a range of developers, publishers, retailers, and Universities, overwhelmingly backed remaining in the European Union.

"UKIE will continue to work hard with colleagues in government to ensure we continue to have the best possible business environment and we will be following developments closely, as well as advising members as they unfold," Twist added.

Rebellion, the Oxford, England-based studio behind the Sniper Elite series and owner of the 2000 AD property, has said it believes the industry will remain strong.

"The UK video games development sector is an export focused industry that sells content all over the globe," said chief executive Jason Kingsley. "We have a highly skilled workforce, a creative and growing studio population, and a heritage of 30 years of success.

"While uncertainty is unwelcome for business, the UK video games industry will remain strong, resilient, and competitive."

from GameSpot http://www.gamespot.com/articles/uk-games-industry-reacts-to-brexit/1100-6441210/