Esports are taking over the world one venue at a time, with interest continuing to grow around the world of competitive gaming. The latest venue to fall under the spell of esports is none other than the Houses of Parliament in London, which today hosted Ukie's parliamentary event along with Intel and the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Video Games.
Policymakers and esports business reps met in Westminster to explore the potential in esports and how it can grow within the UK economy, bringing in money via tourism, creating jobs and engaging with young people interested in competitive gaming via education.
Ukie's Dr Jo Twist said: "We are proud to be hosting such a great event at Parliament. We hope that this event will highlight the role esports can play in supporting jobs, growth and investment across the UK. Esports is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK and around the world; selling out arenas and creating digitally connected communities of millions around the world, and it's starting to positively impact the UK economy with the rise of new jobs roles and revenues."
Alex Sobel MP, who was appointed as the new Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group, added: "It is exciting to see Parliament play host to such an innovative sector. And I'm looking forward to being the new Chair of the renamed APPG for Video Games and Esports, and look forward to further promoting the many opportunities that esports presents to the UK."
Mo Fadl from Riot was in attendance, alongside reps from Intel, ESL, the British Esports Association and more, and there was a panel to discuss the potential of esports, not only in terms of the economic benefits but also education and engaging with young people.
Ed Vaizey, who is not only an MP but also the Vice Chair of The British Esports Association, added: "This event is a great chance to show Government just what esports is capable of. Esports has a strong foundation in grassroots projects but more needs to be done to grow the sector in the UK. I hope that the event leads to more better understanding of the opportunities that esports presents and an acceptance that it is a highly valued and credible activity in its own right."