Ministers have announced plans for a new mobile and broadband "champion" to protect them from being ripped off.

The Government will legislate to create a new independent "advocate" who will represent the interests of consumers.

They will tackle an array of "unfair" practices, including people still being charged for handsets that have already been paid off and a "loyalty penalty" for customers who do not change providers

The new advocate will conduct research to identify unfair practices and represent consumers in key policy debates such as the rollout of 5G and full fibre broadband.

They will also provide customers with "direct support" to help them ensure they are getting a good deal.

Margot James, the digital minister, said: “It's clear that some mobile and broadband customers are vulnerable to unfair business practices.

“We’ve already strengthened Ofcom’s powers to improve outcomes for consumers but a strong, independent consumer champion will empower customers and hold telecoms companies to account, as well as working with them to drive improvements in their services.

“The consumer advocate will help deliver a Britain that works for everyone putting more money into the pockets of ordinary working people.”