It allows Android smartphone users to tap and pay anywhere contactless payments are accepted including on London Underground.

Users will need to download the Android Pay app on Google Play and have a MasterCard or Visa credit or debit card from one of the following: Bank of Scotland, First Direct, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, M&S Bank, MBNA and Nationwide Building Society. Google said new banks will be added soon.

Payments up to £30 can be made without unlocking your phone. Higher value purchases require a PIN or fingerprint.

The new system rivals Apple Pay, which launched in Britain last year.