Customers can get "best deal" on utility bills with swipe of their phone

Bill payers in Britain will be able to see how much they spend on gas and electricity and shop for cheaper prices using their smartphone, under new plans outlined by the British government.

QR codes, which are similar to barcodes, will be included on utility bills and allow homeowners to immediately access information on prices from rival suppliers.

The plans were unveiled by energy secretary Ed Davey in response to calls for the government to provide cheaper energy and more transparent information on pricing.