Credit card companies have agreed to offer consumers struggling with repayments some assistance.

The new set of "fair principles" means card providers will resist from raising interest rates when customers fall into arrears on payments.

Some of the measures were announced following a meeting between card providers and the government two weeks ago.

They have agreed options for customers to transfer deals, or freeze the account and pay off debts at the existing interest rate if the company wants to raise its Annual Percentage Rate (APR).

The companies have also agreed not to raise interest rates if a customer:

   * Fails to make the minimum repayment for more than two months
   * Already has a repayment plan in place
   * Is in "serious discussion" with a debt advice group.

The plan, which comes into effect on 1st January, also includes a pledge not to increase interest rates in the first 12 months, and no more frequently than every six months thereafter. If the APR does rise , customers will be given 30 days notice of the change.

This may change the number of 0% offers, or indeed re introduce annual fees to recoup losses.