Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether Companies House undertook an equality impact assessment in relation to its changes to the director ID verification requirements.

Equality impacts were considered as part of the Impact Assessment prepared for the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill, which introduced identity verification requirements. It concluded the measures are not expected to have any disproportionate impact on individuals with protected characteristics.

Companies House allow individuals to verify their identity via Authorised Corporate Service Providers, or GOV.UK One Login. Where identity cannot be verified online, users may be directed to complete the process in person at a participating Post Office. Companies House also provides tailored support through its contact centre to assist users who may require additional help.