The government has launched a consultation to make it quicker for energy customers to switch suppliers.

It aims to allow consumers to switch their energy supplier in a week or less from next year.

The Department for Business Innovation and Skills is seeking evidence from consumers and industry on how the rules could be implemented.

The consultation looks at how long it takes for people to switch providers across various markets including energy.

It also seeks views on a range of other proposals, including allowing customers to cancel contracts online if they signed up through that method.

The government states it will meet with industry bodies in the coming months to discuss how the proposals could be taken forward.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: “I want to give consumers more power over switching providers for the services they rely on to make sure they are getting the best deals. The government is committed to creating a system that works for consumers and makes markets more competitive.

“At the moment the time it takes to switch depends on which service you are switching. I want to hear what consumers and businesses think of making switching quicker and more consistent across all markets.”