Consumers are turning away from using credit cards, according to new research.

Consumers are turning away from using credit cards, according to new research.

While Brits are intending to pay for more on debit cards than ever before, Apacs, the UK payments association, predicts that people will be putting less on credit cards.

An association spokesperson said that while efforts to avoid debt should be congratulated, this migration away from credit card spending is not necessarily a good move by shoppers.

"Although we actively encourage people to make sure they know how and when they are going to pay back any money they spend on their credit cards, there are some situations where they are the obvious choice for consumers," said Sandra Quinn, Apacs director of communications.

She said that credit cards remain "ideal for high-value items", which enjoy further protection under the Consumer Credit Act and that there are many financial benefits that the cards can offer.

"Whether it's making use of the interest free period to forestall payment, earning points on a loyalty scheme or, of course, cashback," Ms Quinn added.

Despite the benefits that are being talked of, it is forecast that British consumers will spend on average £400 less on their credit cards in December.