“(1) The registrar must ensure that information set out in the register prior to the provisions of this Act coming into force is accurate, up to date, and meets the requirements set out in the Act.

(2) The duty under subsection (1) includes ensuring that each entry lists the unique identification number of the Director of a company.

(3) The registrar will also make an annual report to Parliament on the status of its work to update existing company registrations.

(4) The report under subsection (3) must include—

(a) information on how many existing company registrations the registrar has evaluated to check the accuracy of the information provided, and

(b) details of how many existing company registrations have still to be evaluated by the Registrar to check the accuracy of the information provided.”—(Alison Thewliss.)

This new clause seeks to ensure that existing company registrations contain accurate, up to date information. It also imposes a requirement for the Registrar to update Parliament on the progress of updating the register.

Brought up, and read the First time.

Question put, That the clause be read a Second time.

The House divided: Ayes 233, Noes 290.

Question accordingly negatived.

Proceedings interrupted (Programme Order, this day).

The Deputy Speaker put forthwith the Question necessary for the disposal of the business to be concluded at that time (Standing Order No. 83E).