Most people would pay more to speak to a British call centre worker rather than one based overseas, according to a new report.

But a survey of 600 adults also found that most believed employees based in call centres in this country were more likely to be condescending or stubborn than those in offshore sites.

Fewer than two out of five of those questioned by call centre operator Convergys said they were satisfied with the quality of the service they received from centres based in Britain or other countries.

Companies providing a poor service were likely to lose business, the research suggested.

Stephanie Wilson, vice-president of Convergys, said: "Our industry has to face up to findings like these. We will get nowhere by ignoring how consumers feel about dealing with contact centres, wherever they are based."