GUIDANCE aimed at tackling "ridiculous" delivery charges paid by shoppers in remote areas are being unveiled by the UK Government.

They will set out best practice for businesses, such as couriers, online retailers and delivery firms.

Consumer Affairs Minister Jo Swinson will launch the UK statement of principles during a visit to a John Lewis customer delivery hub in Glasgow.

Ministers believe they will lead to customers being charged a fair delivery price, with details of charges available upfront when people are buying online.

Internet retailers will have to make sure their pricing policies do not discriminate against customers on the basis of their location.

It comes after research from 2012 showed one million people in Scotland faced extra charges, had parcels delayed or were refused delivery. Online Scots shoppers place orders worth £2.5 billion per year.

Ms Swinson said: "Delivery charges should be clear upfront, so people can decide to shop elsewhere if they feel the charges are excessive."

The industry guidance, developed by Citizens Advice and the British Retail Consortium, will help retailers to make sure their customers can easily access clear delivery information.