# **Involvement of the UK Government in Esports**

*Including the Role of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS)*

## **Introduction**

Esports has grown into a major digital entertainment and competitive sector, attracting millions of players and viewers worldwide. In the UK, the industry has been expanding rapidly, drawing the attention of private investors, education providers, and increasingly, the government. While not yet regulated as a traditional sport, the **UK Government**—particularly through the **Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS)**—plays an active role in supporting and monitoring the development of the esports industry.


## **Role of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS)**

The **DCMS** is the UK Government department responsible for sectors such as media, culture, digital technology, tourism, and sport. Esports sits at the intersection of several of these categories, and as such, it falls within the department’s remit.

Although esports is not officially recognised as a sport by the UK Government, the DCMS recognises its **economic, cultural, and educational potential**. It has shown growing interest in ensuring that the UK becomes a hub for safe, well-governed, and innovative esports activity.

### **DCMS Activities and Responsibilities Related to Esports**

* **Policy and Support**
The DCMS has commissioned research and hosted roundtables with esports stakeholders to better understand the industry. Its policy interest often relates to **digital innovation**, **skills development**, and the **creative economy**, where esports is seen as a contributor.

* **Industry Consultation**
DCMS has engaged with organisations such as **British Esports**, **Ukie (The Association for UK Interactive Entertainment)**, and game publishers to understand challenges in areas like safeguarding, gambling, broadcasting rights, and youth engagement.

* **Promoting the UK as a Tech Leader**
Supporting esports aligns with DCMS goals to boost the UK’s **creative and digital economy**, positioning it as a global leader in emerging tech sectors. Esports tournaments, events, and infrastructure contribute to this vision.

* **Youth, Skills and Education**
Through programmes linked to digital skills and creative media, DCMS indirectly supports esports by promoting **STEM learning**, **game development**, and **careers in digital industries**. The rise of esports degrees and college-level courses is an area of interest.


## **Government Reports and Recognition**

In recent years, esports has been mentioned in **Parliamentary debates and select committee hearings**, with MPs recognising its potential for:

* **Job creation in digital industries**
* **Engaging young people in STEM and tech-related education**
* **Boosting the economy through live events and tourism**
* **Encouraging inclusion and digital literacy**

However, the government also acknowledges potential risks, such as:

* **Underage gambling (e.g. skins betting)**
* **Mental and physical health impacts**
* **Lack of regulation and player welfare standards**

The DCMS has called for the industry to self-regulate responsibly and uphold ethical standards.


## **Collaboration with British Esports Federation**

The **British Esports Federation** is a not-for-profit national body that promotes grassroots esports in the UK. While not a government organisation, it often works in partnership with DCMS and educational institutions to:

* Create **safe and structured environments** for young players
* Promote **esports in education**
* Host national tournaments like the **British Esports Championships**
* Represent the UK in international discussions about esports standards


## **Esports and the Government's Broader Digital Strategy**

Esports is seen as a natural part of the UK's **digital strategy**, which focuses on:

* **Growing the digital economy**
* **Building digital infrastructure**
* **Promoting digital skills and innovation**
* **Ensuring online safety and responsible digital participation**

Through these initiatives, esports benefits indirectly from funding, infrastructure investment, and public awareness campaigns related to internet safety, cyberbullying, and digital inclusion.


## **Challenges and Limitations of Government Involvement**

While interest and support exist, there are still key limitations in the government’s involvement:

* **Lack of official sport status** limits funding and strategic support through traditional sport bodies.
* **Fragmentation in the industry** (with multiple platforms, games, and stakeholders) makes regulation complex.
* **Global nature of esports** means UK law must often adapt to international partnerships and standards.


## **Conclusion**

The UK Government, primarily through the DCMS, is increasingly aware of the potential of esports as a valuable part of the digital and cultural economy. While it is not yet recognised as an official sport, esports is gaining support through initiatives related to education, media, youth engagement, and digital development. Continued collaboration between government, industry, and educational bodies will be essential to ensure esports grows in a safe, inclusive, and well-supported way in the UK.