Violent computer games 'illegally sold to children online', watchdog warns

Violent computer games are being sold illegally to children through internet auction sites, a trading watchdog has warned.

Almost 90 per cent of traders investigated by the Welsh Heads of Trading Standards supplied violent games to youngsters.

In the investigation, six local authorities enlisted volunteers aged between 12 and 16 who attempted to buy 18-rated video games on the internet using postal orders.

Of the 44 purchases attempted, 38 traders sold the games to the children.

Among the games bought by the youngsters were Manhunt, Grand Theft Auto, Godfather and Hitman.

Each of the titles carry a British Board of Film Classification rating of 18 because they contain graphic violence.

Traders found guilty of supplying such games to under-age customers can be jailed for up to six months or fined.

Lee Jones, acting head of Bridgend County Borough Council Trading Standards, said: 'This survey shows how easily children can gain access to age-restricted violent video games.'

A Trading Standards Institute spokesman said: 'Traders selling goods over the internet have a responsibility to make sure they have methods in place to avoid breaking the law.

'If traders cannot be sure the person they are selling to is over 18 then they should not be selling.'

TSI chief executive Ron Gainsford said: 'Parents and guardians also have an important role to play in making sure children are not playing unsuitable video games.'