Companies House GDS Saga continues

 You really couldn't make this up!

Companies House "system" to check the on-line identity of  Directors and persons of significant control relies on Gov.uk to perform that validation.  When you attempt to use this system you end up with web pages marked as "Beta" version. In the systems development world Beta version software is that which you think mostly works, but you might find bugs where we haven't tested/fixed fully.  It is not production quality software.

When you send an email to the GDS (GOV.UK) support team you get a response within a day, but it says you may have to wait up to 15 days to get a response from them! 15 Days when all they'll say is "try again".  It sounds like an IT system in serious trouble.  

The Minister responsible for the GOV.UK should get his sleeves rolled up and get things fixed.  The UK Government Minister responsible for GOV.UK is the Minister for the Cabinet Office, as GOV.UK is managed by the Government Digital Service (GDS), which sits within the Cabinet Office. The current Minister for the Cabinet Office, as of the latest available information, is Pat McFadden MP (Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster).

For Companies House the ultimate responsible Minister is the current Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Business, Energy and Corporate Responsibility) at the Department for Business and Trade, with responsibility for Companies House, is Justin Madders. He was appointed to this role on 9 July 2024.

Companies House Woes - Gov.UK One Login - Continued

 I've reached the point where I'm making no progress with Companies House Customer Support. on the lockout of my Digital Id Verification. I've asked Companies House to escalate my complaint to the Head of Operational Delivery for a final internal review.

If that does not resolve the issue, the next step will be escalation to independent adjudicators. If that fails it is then referral to the Ombudsman via my MP.

It appears that this problem is not unique to me, and other people have similar problems.

 Source: perplexity.ai 25^th June 2025

Reported Problems with Companies House Login and ID Verification

There have been multiple reports of issues with the Companies House login and identity verification process, particularly since the introduction of the new GOV.UK One Login system.

Commonly Reported Issues

• Password Reset and Login Failures: Users have experienced difficulties resetting their passwords, even when following the specified criteria (e.g., password length, use of symbols, uppercase and lowercase letters). Some users repeatedly encounter error messages such as "there is a problem" despite meeting all requirements123.

• Technical Errors: Frequent technical issues are reported, including error messages like “An error occurred on client” during login attempts. These errors can persist across multiple browsers and devices23.

• Browser Compatibility: The Companies House website sometimes fails to function correctly on certain browsers, with Chrome being specifically mentioned as problematic. Users have found that switching browsers or devices can sometimes resolve the issue, though this is not always reliable123.

• Account Activation and ID Verification Confusion: New requirements for identity verification and the need to create additional logins (on top of previous Companies House and Government Gateway accounts) have caused confusion. Some users are unsure how to proceed and have reported a lack of clear guidance from Companies House4.

• Third-Party Charges and Workarounds: Due to technical difficulties and unclear instructions, some users have resorted to paying third parties to complete the ID verification process, with fees ranging from £75 to £250. Others have been given unofficial workarounds by Companies House support, such as accessing older login screens to bypass current issues43.

• Delayed or Non-Functional Password Reset Links: Users have reported that password reset links either arrive late or do not work, leading to further frustration and inability to access their accounts3.

• Access and Filing Delays: These login and verification issues have led to delays in accessing important documents and completing required filings, which can have significant business implications3.

Official Guidance and Support

Companies House provides online guidance and suggests:

• Using different browsers and ensuring they are up to date.

• Clearing browser cache and cookies.

• Contacting Companies House support if problems persist.

• For those unable to verify online, in-person verification at a Post Office is available25.

Summary Table of Issues

Issue Type	Description	Reported Solutions
Password/Reset Failures	Passwords meeting criteria still rejected; reset links not working	Try different browsers/devices; contact support123
Technical Errors	Error messages during login or verification	Clear cache/cookies; report to support23
Browser Compatibility	Chrome and others sometimes fail; device-dependent issues	Switch browsers or devices123
ID Verification Confusion	Multiple logins required; unclear instructions	Refer to official guidance; seek support45
Third-Party Fees	Some pay accountants/third parties due to confusion or technical issues	N/A
Filing Delays	Login issues cause delays in document access and submissions	Workarounds; contact support3

Conclusion

There are widespread, documented problems with the Companies House login and ID verification process. These include technical glitches, browser compatibility issues, confusing instructions, and difficulties with password resets and account activation. While Companies House offers some guidance and support, many users find the process frustrating and, in some cases, are forced to seek paid assistance or use unofficial workarounds1243.

1. https://www.reddit.com/r/smallbusinessuk/comments/1l38pz5/anyone_else_having_issues_with_getting_into/

2. https://forbusiness.net/companies-house-login/problems/

3. https://www.accountingweb.co.uk/any-answers/companies-house-log-in-problems

4. https://moneyweek.com/personal-finance/companies-house-id-checks-confusion

5. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verifying-your-identity-for-companies-house

6. https://identity.company-information.service.gov.uk/identity-verification/direct/has-identity-been-verified

7. https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/companies-house-faqs-address-fraud-and-correcting-the-register/

8. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verify-your-identity-for-companies-house

9. https://jakelee.co.uk/verifying-identity-on-companies-house-with-one-login/

10. https://ewf.companieshouse.gov.uk/help/en/stdwf/faqHelp.html

Companies House Woes - Gov.UK One Login

 Blocked by Bureaucracy: A Cautionary Tale of Digital Identity Verification Gone Wrong

In early June 2025, I attempted to complete a new legal requirement: verifying my identity with Companies House under their recently introduced rules for company directors. As a British citizen with a valid UK passport and a longstanding directorship record, I expected this to be straightforward.

Instead, I found myself locked out of the process due to flawed system design, zero accountability, and a rigid reliance on automation that offers no escape hatch when it fails.

A System That Denies Access

Companies House now mandates that directors verify their identity through GOV.UK One Login, managed by the Government Digital Service (GDS). There are three free verification routes:

1. The ID Check app (passport + facial recognition),

2. The Post Office route, and

3. Security questions (offered only in some cases).

I attempted the ID Check app. It failed without explanation. When I logged back into GOV.UK One Login, I was told the Post Office route was not available. I retained a screenshot of this notice. I was not given the option to proceed at a local branch, and the “security questions” route was also never offered.

In effect, I was blocked from all free options — by the system itself — with no clarity, no workaround, and no appeal.

No Help, No Override, No Responsibility

Companies House confirmed to me in writing that:

• They are not told why a verification attempt fails,

• They cannot reset or enable other routes,

• They suggest using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) — a paid agent — as the only remaining option.

In other words: "We required you to verify, we outsourced it to a third-party system, and now we can't help you."

The Cost of Bad Design

My accountant, a registered ACSP, offered to complete the verification for £70 + VAT — a fair professional rate. But the issue is bigger than cost. The government has created a legal obligation, delivered through a system that can quietly fail legitimate users, and offers no backup plan.

This is not a technical hiccup — it's a governance failure. Companies House implemented a rigid, automated process without defining how to support valid users when the system fails. No manual override. No human review. No accountability.

What I’ve Done So Far

• Submitted formal complaints to Companies House and GDS,

• Sent Subject Access Requests (SARs) to both under UK GDPR, requesting all data and logic used in the identity decision,

• Maintained a detailed timeline of interactions and failures.

What Comes Next

If the matter isn’t resolved, I will escalate to:

• The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for possible data rights violations,

• The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, for systemic maladministration,

• And my MP, to raise questions about public accountability.

---

🧭 Lessons for Others

If you're a UK director and your verification fails or is blocked:

• Keep evidence (screenshots, emails, dates),

• Submit a SAR — you have a right to know how your data was processed,

• Challenge the process — don’t accept silence from a system that was designed without safeguards.

How will AI affect your job?

 

The Impact of AI on Lives in the UK: Opportunity or Challenge?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, reshaping economies, and altering the way we work. In the UK, as in many other countries, the rise of AI brings significant opportunities but also raises pressing concerns, particularly around the potential displacement of white-collar jobs. This article explores how AI might affect lives in the UK and what steps can be taken to ensure these changes result in better outcomes for all.

---

The Opportunities AI Presents

AI offers considerable potential to improve the quality of life for UK citizens, with applications spanning various sectors:

1. Enhanced Services:

   • Healthcare: AI systems can assist in diagnosing diseases, streamlining patient care, and reducing waiting times, contributing to a more efficient National Health Service (NHS).
   • Public Services: AI can optimize transportation, urban planning, and resource distribution, making everyday life more convenient and sustainable.

2. Increased Productivity:

   • Businesses can use AI to automate repetitive tasks, lower operational costs, and increase overall efficiency, potentially leading to economic growth and reduced prices for consumers.
   • By handling mundane tasks, AI enables individuals to focus on creative, strategic, or higher-value work.

3. Job Creation:

   • While AI may eliminate some jobs, it also creates demand for new roles in AI development, maintenance, and regulation. Fields like data security, human-AI interaction, and ethical AI oversight are expected to grow significantly.

4. Personalized Benefits:

   • AI tools enhance daily life by streamlining mundane tasks, personalizing education, and improving access to entertainment and learning resources.

---

The Challenges of AI Adoption

Despite its potential, the adoption of AI brings significant challenges that must be addressed to avoid negative societal impacts:

1. Job Displacement:

   • White-collar roles in sectors like finance, law, and administration are at high risk of automation, potentially leading to unemployment or underemployment for many workers.

2. Economic Inequality:

   • Without careful intervention, the wealth generated by AI could become concentrated in the hands of a few, exacerbating existing economic disparities.

3. Ethical and Social Concerns:

   • AI systems can inadvertently reinforce biases or invade privacy, raising ethical concerns that could undermine trust in technology.
   • Increasing reliance on AI-mediated services may lead to a loss of human connection in critical areas like healthcare and customer support.

4. Skills Gap:

   • Workers displaced by AI may lack the skills needed to transition into emerging fields, creating a mismatch between the jobs available and the skills of the workforce.

---

Ensuring Positive Outcomes

To maximize the benefits of AI while mitigating its risks, several strategies should be considered:

1. Education and Reskilling:

   • Comprehensive education and training programs are essential to equip workers with the skills needed for roles in fields resilient to AI disruption. This includes technical training as well as fostering creativity and human-centered skills.

2. Inclusive Economic Policies:

   • Policies such as universal basic income (UBI) or enhanced social safety nets can help protect individuals during the transition.
   • Investments should focus on regions and communities most affected by job losses, ensuring that the benefits of AI are widely distributed.

3. Ethical AI Governance:

   • Strong regulations are needed to ensure that AI systems are fair, unbiased, and used responsibly. Transparency and accountability should be core principles in AI deployment.

4. Fostering Innovation:

   • Support for startups and small businesses leveraging AI can create new markets and job opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation.

---

Looking Ahead

AI holds immense potential to improve lives in the UK, from advancing healthcare to enhancing everyday conveniences. However, the risks associated with job displacement and economic inequality cannot be ignored. With thoughtful policies, robust education systems, and a focus on ethical AI development, it is possible to harness the power of AI to create a more equitable and prosperous society.

The path forward requires collaboration between governments, businesses, and individuals to ensure that the transition to an AI-driven economy leaves no one behind. By addressing challenges proactively, the UK can position itself as a leader in the responsible adoption of AI, securing a better future for all its citizens.

A handy, but pricey label printer for small businesses

 

Review: Brother QL-1110NWBc Label Printer – The Small Business Powerhouse

Running a small business often means juggling multiple tasks, and shipping logistics can easily consume a big chunk of time. Enter the Brother QL-1110NWBc, a label printer designed to make the process seamless, efficient, and customizable. With its versatility, robust connectivity options, and programmability, this printer could be a game-changer for small businesses looking to optimize their shipping workflows. Here’s an in-depth review of what makes the QL-1110NWBc a standout option for printing shipping labels.

We already possess the smaller Brother QL-810W for general label printing. This has been very reliable, but it can't produce the 4 x 5 inch label format in common usage by shipping/courier companies. We decided to buy QL-1110NWBc to handle the larger label format for our shipping needs. Upto now we have had to cut out the label from an A4 sheet and then find a way to adhere the label to the outgoing parcel.

---

Key Features

1. Exceptional Connectivity Options

The Brother QL-1110NWBc supports a variety of connectivity options, making it incredibly adaptable to different business setups. Whether you work from a desktop, tablet, or smartphone, this printer has you covered. It features:

• USB: A straightforward plug-and-play option for those who prefer wired setups.
• Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct: Wireless printing ensures flexibility, allowing you to print from multiple devices without being tethered to the printer.
• Ethernet: Perfect for shared office environments, letting multiple users access the printer without needing a direct connection.
• Bluetooth: An excellent option for mobile printing, particularly when paired with the Brother iPrint&Label app for quick and easy label creation.

This broad range of connectivity ensures that no matter your tech ecosystem, integrating the QL-1110NWBc into your workflow is hassle-free.

---

2. Programmability for Specialist Applications

One of the standout features of the QL-1110NWBc is its programmability. This makes it a fantastic choice for businesses that require specialized or automated labeling tasks. The printer supports:

• SDK Integration: Brother provides Software Development Kits (SDKs) for Windows, iOS, and Android, allowing developers to create tailored label-printing solutions. This is ideal for businesses using custom inventory or logistics management systems.
• Custom Templates: Using Brother's P-touch Editor software, you can design and save templates directly to the printer. This ensures consistency in branding and label layouts while saving time during high-volume printing tasks.
• ZPL II Compatibility: The printer can emulate Zebra Programming Language, making it easier to integrate with existing systems that rely on Zebra label printers.

These programmability options make the QL-1110NWBc suitable not only for standard shipping labels but also for niche applications like barcode printing, product labeling, and warehouse inventory management.

---

Performance

The QL-1110NWBc boasts excellent print quality and speed, critical factors for any label printer. It supports labels up to 4 inches wide—perfect for large shipping labels required by major couriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS. The printing speed, rated at 69 standard address labels per minute, ensures you can process orders efficiently, even during peak times.

The thermal printing technology eliminates the need for ink or toner, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring crisp, smudge-free prints. Additionally, the automatic cutter provides a professional finish and minimizes label waste.

---

Ease of Use

Despite its advanced features, the QL-1110NWBc remains user-friendly. The setup process is straightforward, and the iPrint&Label app provides intuitive options for creating and printing labels directly from your smartphone. The ability to integrate with platforms like Microsoft Office and popular e-commerce tools further simplifies label creation for small businesses.

For those with more complex needs, the Brother P-touch Editor software offers a wealth of customization options. You can easily add logos, barcodes, and QR codes, ensuring your labels meet both branding and regulatory requirements.

Brother provide a free software package (P-Touch Editor) to aid the design of labels for its range of label machines. This is easy to use, and has powerful capabilities.

---

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Wide range of connectivity options (USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth)
• High-quality, fast printing
• Supports labels up to 4 inches wide
• Programmability for custom and automated solutions
• Ink-free thermal printing reduces costs
• Easy integration with e-commerce platforms and custom systems

Cons:

• Premium price point compared to basic label printers
• Advanced features may have a learning curve for non-technical users
• The Brother labels are good, but expensive. There are cheaper compatible labels, but they may not be as good as the genuine article.

---

Verdict

The Brother QL-1110NWBc is more than just a label printer—it's a productivity tool for small businesses aiming to streamline shipping and labeling processes. Its robust connectivity, speed, and programmability set it apart as a top-tier solution for businesses with both standard and specialized needs.

While its advanced features may feel overwhelming initially, the time saved and efficiency gained make it a worthwhile investment for growing businesses. If you’re looking for a versatile, reliable, and customizable label printer, the Brother QL-1110NWBc is hard to beat.

---

Who is it for?
Small to medium-sized businesses that require high-quality, customizable label printing with extensive connectivity and integration options.

Final Rating: 9/10
A feature-rich and reliable choice that justifies its cost for businesses serious about optimizing their shipping operations.

SD Card ratings explained

 I came across this useful YouTube video which explains the various SD Card ratings.  Well worth a look.

Fake memory Cards on Amazon

 Not all products on Amazon are genuine, and the reviews may be fake. Here's an example of fake MicroSD cards. 

First the listing, taken from Amazon today:

Notice the obvious spelling mistake of Extreme. The colour scheme is similar to a well known brand, and the price is too good.  There's 47 reviews, but they are sponsored with the reviewers receiving free memory cards from Amazon. Those reviews actually refer to a different capacity of memory card (64GB). Not a single review actually tested the claimed 512GB f capacity.

Here's a YouTube video (a year old) that gives further details of these types of Scam.

In the following text, I've ask ChatGPT to write a good review for a memory card, the results are very similar to those for the card.:

Review Title: Exceptional Storage Performance in a Compact Package!

I recently purchased the 512 GB SDXC U3 Micro SD card, and I couldn't be happier with my choice. It arrived quickly and was very well-packaged, ensuring the card was protected during transit. This attention to detail was reassuring and set the tone for a great experience.

In terms of performance, this memory card is an absolute gem. The U3 speed rating delivers as promised – lightning-fast read and write speeds, which are perfect for my needs. I use it in my 4K action camera and smartphone, and it handles high-definition video recording and playback flawlessly. No lag, no buffering – just seamless performance.

The 512 GB capacity provides ample storage for all my videos, photos, apps, and files, making it a versatile and reliable choice for both professional and personal use. It formatted easily and was instantly recognized by all my devices, including my laptop and gaming console.

Overall, this SD card offers incredible value for its price. Whether you're a content creator, gamer, or someone who simply needs reliable storage, I highly recommend this product. It's a must-have for anyone seeking high-speed, high-capacity storage in a tiny, durable package!

⭐ Rating: 5/5
✅ Pros: Fast, reliable, large capacity, well-packaged.
❌ Cons: None so far!

Will definitely purchase this brand again in the future. Thank you for delivering such a fantastic product!

Here's one of those reviews: