The effects of on-line gaming and mobile technology on mental health is to be investigated by a group set up by a MP.

Video games and their addictive nature should be treated in a similar way to the gambling industry to protect people from the potential adverse health effects, it has been argued.

Ged Killen, Rutherglen Labour MP has set up an All Party Parliamentary Group to examine the impact of addictive technology.

It comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) classified “gaming disorder” as a mental health condition.

Mr Killen has already spoken in Parliament at Westminster on addictive technology.

He wants to see technology companies volunteer a portion of their profits to support research into potential adverse effects and care for those who suffer health impacts due to their products.

Mr Killen said: “Phones, laptops and tablets have become central to many of our day to day lives. While these are extremely useful tools, overuse of technology can have a detrimental impact on our health. Most of us will have experience of trying to hold a conversation with a friend or relative who is face down in a phone or tablet, but for some people it is more serious than that.”

The House of Commons Digital Culture Media and Sports Select committee is currently looking at the impacts that overuse of new technology has on people’s health.

Mr Killen added: “My APPG will seek to create a space for MPs to engage with the tech companies and put across our concerns and what action we want to see them take to ensure that we can live better and healthier lives with the technology we use every day.”

The WHO said there are three major diagnostic features of gaming disorder.

One is the behaviour takes precedence over other activities. The second is “impaired control” of the behaviour meaning even where there are negative consequences the behaviour continues and the third is that it leads to significant distress and impairment in the person’s ability to function properly in personal relationships, education or work.

The lead researcher said it is similar to drug and alcohol or gambling addiction.