Nearly two-thirds of adults in Britain would be willing to pay more for an energy-efficient home, according to a survey.

The research, commissioned by materials firm Wolseley UK, also showed that despite a slow housing market and low consumer spending, 24% of adults in Britain would be prepared to pay up to £5000 more than the property's asking price, with 11% willing to pay up to £10,000 more.

However, the survey also revealed that only one-quarter of 16-24 year olds were prepared to pay more for "green products".

Adrian Barden, managing director of Wolseley UK, said: "Energy-labelling new homes is a positive first step by the government, but it does not target the more than 25 million existing homes in the UK that are continuing to waste energy. A joined-up approach between the housebuilding industry and the government is needed."