Disputes 180 Episode 6: UK Companies House: New Powers and New Approach

For those involved in corporate governance, compliance or risk management, our sixth episode explores the most significant transformation of Companies House in its 180-year history. Once a passive record-keeper, Companies House now has a proactive regulatory role. The change will reshape how company governance operates, how stakeholders engage with the registry and how trust in U.K. business is upheld.

Useful Resources:

• Companies Act 2006 (as amended)
• Companies House enforcement policy - GOV.UK
• Companies House implements new powers with new non-compliance penalties - GOV.UK
• Companies House enforcement policy - GOV.UK – Compliance Framework
• Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022
• Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023
• The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (Financial Penalty) Regulations 2024
• The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (Financial Penalty) Regulations 2024 – Registrar’s Powers
• Letter to Rt Hon. Liam Byrne MP, from Louise Smyth (CEO, Companies House: 17 April 2025)