Ukie responds to government announcement on subscription refunds

The UK games industry has called on government to urgently provide clarity for businesses following new proposals on consumer subscription refunds.

The government has proposed that refunds should be calculated in proportion to the part of a contract that has been performed.

Ukie maintains that “The games industry is committed to transparent and fair subscription models to ensure that players get real value and have the maximum amount of information before making decisions.

The Government has proposed that refunds be calculated in proportion to the part of the contract performed. UK games businesses need clarity in how this is going to be calculated.

Subscriptions provide real benefits and value to consumers, but a narrow and restrictive method in calculating refunds could see players cancel within their renewal period having gained access and consumed content that far exceeds the value of the refund.

Without flexibility and clarity from Government, these changes could discourage investment in subscription products and create financial exposure for businesses.

Given Government has accelerated the implementation of these new measures before the previously indicated 12 month implementation period – we call on them to urgently bring forward guidance for businesses without delay in order to give them the ability to confidently implement any changes to their processes.”