...but phone apps could help us switch suppliers

CONSUMERS could switch energy and phone providers in the future using mobile apps which show them where to get the best deal.

The Government’s Smart Data Review into industry practice could help end rip-off fees.

The plans will include encouraging private firms to develop apps that display data on the cheapest deals. They could allow consumers to input information about their current deals and then switch automatically after they run out.

The review, to be published early next year, also seeks to end ‘loyalty penalties’ on consumers, which Citizens Advice estimates costs customers £4billion a year.

Minister Kelly Tolhurst said: ‘Many loyal customers are still paying more than they need to.’