CONSUMER watchdogs are warning householders to take their time before switching electricity suppliers.

As competition for new customers hots up, the National Consumer Council is advising people to take their time before being tempted by special offers.

NCC director Ruth Evans said she hoped the widespread hard-selling that took place on doorsteps at the start of gas competition two years ago would not be repeated. Since then new marketing controls have been introduced by regulators to curb malpractice.

She said: "Consumers should be on their guard, check the facts and if necessary call the regulator's freephone helpline before rushing into a hasty decision.

"But bills can vary a lot between households and according to how you pay - for instance by direct debit, prepayment meter or quarterly cheque. What may at first sight seem to be a bargain may not be such a good deal."

From this month customers in certain areas can already choose alternative suppliers. Competition will begin in October in the MEB region, which includes part of North Oxfordshire and in December in the Southern, East Midlands and SWEB areas.

Industry experts are forecasting that competition will bring about savings of eight to ten per cent on current household bills.

The freephone helpline is 0800 451451.

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