DCMS backs ratings system in MOH row
Liam Fox was "expressing personal view".
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has this morning distanced itself from the Defence Secretary's call to "ban" Medal of Honor in the UK – describing his comments as "a personal view" while backing the game's existing BBFC 18-rating.
A statement issued to Eurogamer, attributed to a DCMS spokesperson, said: "Dr Fox was expressing a personal view and we understand why some people might find the subject matter of the game offensive.
"There is a ratings system in place which exists to categorise games appropriately, in this case the game in question is rated 18 so should only be sold to, and played by, adults.
"There is a clear choice for consumers which they can exercise when making decisions about purchasing video games."
In comments reported over the weekend, Fox described EA's forthcoming action game – which allows players to assume the role of the Taliban in multiplayer – as "tasteless" and "shocking".
He added: "I would urge retailers to show their support for our armed forces and ban this tasteless product."
Medal of Honor was awarded an 18-rating by the BBFC on 17th August for its "strong bloody violence".
The game is due for release on PS3, 360 and PC on 15th October.