I think we need to campaign against excessive interest charges on overdrafts and CCs. On one of my CCs the standard rate is 5 times base rate right now, having gone up last month (even though the base rate hasn't changed in ages now). Normal overdraft rates are three times the base rate, and go up to around six times if unauthorised.
I think the rates charged should be capped at base rate plus 8%, rising to base rate plus 10% for unauthorised borrowing. This still leaves the banks with a good margin and would help many to get out of debt who can only afford to make the minimum payment. Couple this with a central register of debts so that banks have a transparent view of your total debt burden and then take a responsible view of your capacity to borrow and the world would be a better place!
Oh yes - I forgot two extra words - 'FAT CHANCE'!
