The video games industry must be taken seriously, a leading group has claimed, which could lead to new jobs being created for IT contractors.

Tom Watson, a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Computer and Video Games Industry, claimed that this is a "hotbed" for creativity in the UK and is an industry with a large number of opportunities.

He highlighted the role that the government will have to play in creating the right environment for these qualities to prosper.

"[The sector is] underpinned by the need for creativity and education and great and high quality technical skills and a necessary role for the government," he stated.

Mr Watson added that this cultural shift is something that must be taken into account by policymakers, highlighting its transformation during the last decade.

His comments were made at the Westminster eForum keynote seminar on the sector in London earlier this month, which discussed international competition and tax breaks that could promote the industry.

The CEO of Castlemaine Marketing Limited reacted to the news with an air of caution stating: "It is important to remember that tax avoidance solutions operate in very different ways and contractors should not believe that the failings in one company reflect the industry as a whole."

"However, it underlines the importance of fully researching and understanding the solution you want to work through and the company which operates it, whether this is an umbrella company, accountant or offshore provider."