LONDON--Lord Sainsbury, UK's Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Science and Innovation, spoke today about his concerns for the future of game industry talent. Keynoting the London Games Summit, part of this week's London Games Festival, Sainsbury said he believes that substandard teaching of science and maths is failing to enthuse British school children and is responsible for a shortage of UK talent in the game industry here.

　　"If we are to solve the global challenges that we face to create new jobs for wealth, it is through science and innovation. I know from discussions with you that you believe that too few students are leaving school with even a basic understanding of science. You tell me that this is impacting your ability to hire new staff."

　　Lord Sainsbury went on to claim that the UK government is making attempts to improve teaching in these subjects but that not enough is being done to inspire children.

　　"This is a very glamourous industry for young people, and we need to show them that if they want to come into this industry then actually taking A Levels in physics and maths, these 'harder' subjects, is the way into this industry, as opposed to softer subjects that may seem more relevant."

　　He also spoke on a range of other topics relevant to the game industry, including the fact that the UK government is now recognising the game industry's importance.

　　"A point not missed by the government is that computer games generated an export value of £488 million in 2003 compared to £256 million in the much higher-profile UK film industry. The film industry has a great profile and is a much-loved industry, but the fact is the computer game industry is much more economically impressive."

　　Lord Sainsbury's speech was brief, taking just 10 minutes out of his allotted half hour. One reason for the brevity may have been the session's poor attendance. His session, along with others, was noticeably underpopulated. In contrast, sessions at the Game Developers Conference London, taking place in the same building, were far more popular. LGS organisers said they hoped attendance would pick up on the second and final day of their event.