The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has launched a voluntary online ratings system for videos and computer games distributed online.

BBFC Online will apply the eight ratings used on traditional films and DVDs, such as U, 15 and 18, to downloaded and streamed films, TV shows and computer games.

All games and films distributed via the internet, TV set-top boxes, games consoles or mobile devices will be rated.

The scheme, which has taken 18 months to develop in conjunction with the British Video Association, follows research by the BBFC which found that nearly three-quarters of parents were concerned about their children downloading video material that does not come with independent content advice and labelling.

Research found that nine out of 10 of parents wanted to see BBFC film and DVD classifications on downloadable or streamed films and other digital content.

Under the proposals, a pop-up certificate, showing the rating and a brief description, will appear on screen before films can be bought or downloaded.

The BBFC said 700 videos available online were already using its classification certificates, with the number expected to increase to 1,000 by the end of May.

It said several "key media players were poised to sign" the scheme, joining companies such as Warner Bros, 20th Century Fox and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment Europe.

As well as the ratings, parents will also be offered "gate keeping" systems, such as PIN numbers and the ability to monitor what their children are downloading and watching.

The BBFC said these tools would be monitored by it to ensure web stores and companies that have signed up to the scheme are doing their job.

David Cooke, director of the BBFC, said: “We are extremely pleased to have been able to work with the video industry to develop a scheme that will give online consumers the same assurance that our symbols and content information provide for cinema films, DVDs and video games.

“Consumers considering buying into the world of downloads will be able to rely on our familiar symbols and advice to decide which films or video games are suitable for them and their children.”

Minister for Culture Margaret Hodge said: “The introduction of the BBFC system for online film downloads will provide some welcome clarity for consumers, to help them gain greater confidence that their purchases are appropriate before they commit themselves. I hope to see more studios sign up to the scheme.”

This is not the first time video game ratings have been in the spotlight. Earlier this year the Government led Byron Report suggested a universal rating system with BBFC-style ratings for all games.