Ed Vaizey is given a taste of why Leamington is now ‘Silicon Spa’

Mr Vaizey was invited by Warwick and Leamington MP Chris White to see several of the video games companies based in the town, including Blitz Games, Playground Games and Kwalee, and he also took part in a roundtable discussion at Warwickshire College about supporting the sector.

Mr Vaizey said: “The UK has a proud history of video game production, and it’s brilliant to see this being carried forward by the vibrant hub of companies in Leamington.

“Government recognises the important contribution the industry makes to the economy and is committed to supporting its continued growth. This is why we are introducing a new tax relief for the industry and providing funding for entry and professional level training for up to 3,300 people over the next two years.”

Mr White was part of the campaign to get a video games tax relief set up in the UK to support the sector.

He said: “I’m delighted that the minister has chosen to visit Leamington, highlighting the leading role our town is playing in this growth industry. The video games sector is an important local employer, responsible for hundreds of jobs, and I will continue to do everything I can to support its growth. I believe that if businesses, government and colleges like Warwickshire College can work together, we can achieve big things in the years ahead.”

The delegation met video games publishers and council representatives as well as staff and students from Warwickshire College, including its principal, Mariane Cavalli.

She spoke about the training and qualifications the college is offering to students in games art, which have been developed with the help of employers.

She said: “This event is just one of many industry engagement activities we are undertaking as the area’s Gazelle Local college. We are committed to transforming education through enterprise and entrepreneurship, and working with employers, understanding their needs and developing students to fit in with those needs is central to our success.”