Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said: “We want consumers to be treated fairly.
“The energy price cap shows government is willing to intervene to make sure consumers aren’t punished for loyalty, and it is encouraging to see further action being considered in other markets.
“Our research has shown that, left to their own devices, companies take advantage of consumers’ loyalty, and can charge them an average of nearly £1,000 per year for it.
“Vulnerable people are often the hardest hit by unfair practices and government should hold companies to account to make sure they are protected.
“The government rightly highlights people are getting a particularly raw deal in the telecoms market and they have less protection than in other essential markets, so the government must strengthen consumers’ voices by establishing an independent consumer advocate.
“We welcome the government’s statement of intent, and look forward to working together to ensure these ideas work for consumers, especially the most vulnerable in society.”
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Notes to editors